What is it?A KISS wastebasket manufactured around...
What is it?
A KISS wastebasket manufactured around 1977 when the rock ‘n’ roll group licensed items with their pictures on them. It sold for about $8.
What’s the history?
KISS first performed in late 1973 in New York City. They are known for their ghoulish makeup and, in guitarist Gene Simmons’ case, his unnaturally long tongue.
When was it first sold?
Most KISS artifacts were sold through mail-order in fan magazines or catalogs, then moved on to discount stores. There were sleeping bags, lunch boxes, dolls, mirrors and plastic cups.
According to collector Holly Orzol of Huntington Beach, “The KISS community is small, but KISS artifacts have always been popular with them.”
How was it made?
The 2-foot-tall wastebasket was made of metal and had the imprints photo-transferred onto it.
Why is it popular now?
The rock group reunited after 16 years for a 1996-97 tour and that set off the demand.
Where can you find it?
Memorabilia in good shape is hard to find because so much of it was bought by teens and then thrown away a few years later. Items may be found at swap meets, garage sales and vintage stores that specialize in ‘70s rock ‘n’ roll. Orzol sells from her collection ([714] 968-2324) and at the Golden Apple on Melrose in L.A.
What’s it worth now?
This wastebasket is $350 at Antique Station, 178 S. Glassell, Orange. In 1993, it went for $175. The KISS craze is so hot that plastic cups in good condition that originally were given away free with soft drinks command as much as $400.
What to watch out for
Items continued to be made and are not as valuable as the original pieces.
For more information
The KISS Army, a fan club, keeps up on current prices and sells via mail order. Write to David Snowden, P.O. Box 24851, Baltimore, Md. 21220-0851.
To have an item considered for this column, send information and a photo to What’s It Worth, Home Design, The Times Orange County, 1375 Sunflower Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
