These photos are so poor that I hesitated about putting them up. But I have a little point to make, and they do at least show the product and the problem.
For a very long time I’ve wanted this map of the USA cooler, made by Skotch Kooler for Esso sometime in the 1950s. I want one because I have this crazy love for old tin maps, and I can remember this cooler from my childhood. It’s a fairly common thing; I run across them all the time. The problem is that they are always either rusty or the graphics have faded. I’m wanting one in excellent condition, mainly because I want to use it.
I spotted this one hanging in a mall, but even before I’d seen the price – $39.99 – I’d ruled it out. I just can’t live with that much rust. I thought the price was too high, especially given the condition, but a quick look on etsy put this in line with what people are asking online.
Oh, well, someday my cooler will come in.
The Vintage Traveler 
I enjoy your blog and will keep an eye out for one.
Diane
Honey Stop The Car Vintage
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Thanks Diane!
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Lizzie – you and I have great taste because I absolutely adore that Skotch Cooler as well. It brings a smile to my face every time I look at mine (which at the time I bought it I thought I paid too much for, but now I’m glad I have it!)
One thing that I thought from your photos, and I’m relieved that it was not the case, is I thought someone might have repurposed that into a hanging light fixture!
(on a tin map aside, I DID get that one from Etsy and it’s grand – and you’ve now made me realize that I should be using both the tray and the cooler when I decorate our vintage Serro Scotty camper – whee!!
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When I saw that tray and then realized it has sold I was crushed until I realized that surely you were the buyer. We DO have great taste!
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Lizzie…there are two of those Koolers on EBAY right now. One is 28.95 and 9.00 shipping which states no rust and looks pretty good. (It is listed as a “Buy it Now). The other one is rusted and is under 20.00. I have never seen any and am not familiar with the going price range. It looks like a cute item to own.
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Bopth of those are priced in the ballpark, but the condition is poorer than what I want. I’ll keep looking!
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That is really nifty!! What adorable graphics!
-Janey
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I grew up going to thrift shops, owned an antique shop for years, and have been shopping all over the US for the past ten years and I have NEVER seen one of these. And I’d remember ’cause this is right up my alley. I just think it’s funny that you see them all the time and I sure don’t.
But if I do I’ll make sure you get it!
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That is odd, seeing as how you travel so much and all over the country. People are probably buying them just before you get to them!
And THANKS!
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It does look awesome. My must-have was rainbow anodized canisters in good condition but not crazily overpriced. After about a year of ebay stalking I got them. Just keep searching!
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I like old tins too !
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I just found the two gallon cooler at a garage sale for $1.00.
I drive a 1966 Chevy Impala convertible and I always put it in the back seat for decoration and to carry my POC or Strohs beer.
Happy Camper
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Lucky you. I must keep on searching.
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I came across one and I have this very nice good condition very to little none rust if your interested email me back
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