Vintage Steel Belted Cooler - 54qt
Size:
Quantity
Why We Like The Coleman Vintage Steel Belted Cooler
Details
- 54-quart capacity can hold up to 85 cans
- Keeps the Ice! insulation offers 4-day ice retention
- Have-A-Seat lid supports up to 250 pounds
- Comfort-grip steel handles allow easy carrying
- Item #CMNK12C
- Material
- [hardware] stainless steel [insulation] Keeps the Ice!
- Volume
- 51L (3112cu in)
- Closure
- twist-lock
- Dimensions
- [external] 23 x 14.75 x 16.25in, [internal] 19 x 11 x 13.25in
- Weight
- 15lb 11oz
- Manufacturer Warranty
- limited lifetime
Reviews
Q&A
What do you think about this product?
Overall Rating
4 based on 194 ratings
Review Summary
Fits True To Size
Screen reader users: the following list provides a visual scale to illustrate the product fit. Please refer to the heading above for the fit type in text.Customer Images
Here's what customers have to say
The product is a durable and reliable cooler known for its ability to keep ice for days. Customers praise its sturdy construction and vintage aesthetic, with some having used the same model for decades. However, some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the quality of the latch and locking mechanism, which can be less reliable than older models. Despite this, the majority of customers are highly satisfied with the cooler's overall performance and value.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews.
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Selecting an option will reload the available reviews on the pageSeptember 24, 2025
Weak latch, useless drain plug
The latch is not particularly secure and will break sooner rather than later. The drain plug is completely useless. You might as well not even try, it's going to empty all the melted ice after the course of a day even when it's closed. This is a cheap cooler at a premium price.
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
September 11, 2025
Vintage 54-Quart Steel Belted® Cooler
Great classic look. I love it!!!!! Can't wait to use it.
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
August 30, 2025
Looks great but latch fails
Cooler looks great and keeps ice. However the cheap plastic keeper piece that the metal latch hooks too is a fail. I've had to replace twice now. It's breaks and falls out leaving nothing for the latch to hook on. Coleman should send at least 5 of these with every cooler because it will happen
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
August 25, 2025
Great cooler!
Great cooler. Minimize opening and closing and your ice will last for a few days. Made to be super durable as well. Made in USA is a plus too!
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
August 17, 2025
Only thing I found that works.
Went away for the weekend. This cooler used to be our stepdad’s. We thought we would try it out. It kept ice all weekend long and the temperature was 100° and everything stayed cool and fairly any ice melted Halie recommend

Originally reviewed on influenster.com
August 7, 2025
Excellent cooler
The capacity of this cooler is excellent, its durability & portability is good. Insulation is great with easy cleaning. Definitely a must buy.

Originally reviewed on influenster.com
July 30, 2025
Cooler design that has stood the test of time
When I was looking for new cooler that wasn't all plastic, I was happy to see that Coleman still makes this model that served as our family's workhorse cooler when I was a kid growing up, so I purchased one recently to see if it has stood the test of time, and after using for a few weeks, I would say it has, and would recommend to others. What I like best is the metal clasp, handles, and most importantly, hinges. Insulation is good, with needing to replenish ice about every other day. Drain plug is tight, no leaks. Only regret is that it doesn't come with a tray anymore to keep deli stuff off the ice so that it won't get soggy. Looks like there are some third party options though for a tray or basket that will fit.
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
July 29, 2025
Bottle opener missed, but you can clean fish w/it.
Like the cooler, not as good as the older ones. Miss a bottle opener! Hate the aluminum badge on the front that if and when bent can cause serious injuries if not noticed! Good thing I was wearing a jacket/sweatshirt or I would probably had to visit the emergency room and require stitches... Someone will eventually get seriously hurt by this cooler!!! I do like this cooler but for safety reasons the aluminum badge should be removed! But, on the other hand, you can clean fish or gut a deer. Please be aware of this potential hazard!!!
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
July 15, 2025
A stylish and sturdy cooler with solid ice retenti
The Vintage 54-Quart Steel Belted Cooler combines classic retro style with reliable performance. Its sturdy steel body and chrome accents give it a nostalgic charm, while the spacious interior holds up to 85 cans—perfect for camping, tailgating, or backyard gatherings. Ice retention is solid, lasting about 2–3 days in moderate conditions. The lid seals tightly, and the built-in drain makes cleanup easy. While it’s heavier than modern plastic coolers and can heat up in the sun, the durable build and standout design make it worth it. If you're looking for a cooler that delivers both function and vintage flair, this one’s a great pick for the price.

Originally reviewed on influenster.com
June 13, 2025
Still good after 75 years
Have the original my grandpa purchased in 1950, and it still out preforms a yeti. It's beat up, the plastic has splits, and the latch doesn't hold too well anymore. But it still has good ice after 5 days. The yeti held ice for 2. For 75 years old it still the best cooler I've seen
Originally reviewed on coleman.com
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