Made in every shape and size imaginable, advertising calendars range from single sheet year-at-a-glance pieces to monthly paintings of the product in use. Some of the biggest issuers included Coca-Cola, DuPont, Ford, John Deere, Mobil, and almost all the major railroads. Pinup calendars became popular in the 1940s and 50s.

Older advertising calendars are valued for their lithography, as well as the images contained in the calendar, which varied from advertising illustrations to elaborate paintings. Condition is a must, as is the quality and color of the artwork. Tear-sheet calendars with all the months intact, starting with January, command a premium.