Vintage advertising signs remind us of the early days of marketing when they graced gas stations, diners, and storefronts. Now, they bring fond memories, and some people are willing to pay a reasonable sum to have some vintage signs. Here are a few old signposts that can fetch nice prices.
Coca-Cola Porcelain Signs (1940s-1950s)
Coca-Cola’s vintage porcelain signs are among the most collectible advertising pieces due to their vibrant colors and iconic branding. These signs often featured slogans like “Drink Coca-Cola” or “Ice Cold Coca-Cola Here.” The porcelain material made them durable and costly to produce, which adds to their rarity today.
Texaco Star Signs (1930s-1950s)
Porcelain Texaco signs often adorned gas stations and service centers. They vary in size, with the large double-sided versions being the most sought-after. Those in excellent condition can sell for upwards of $10,000. Watch out for reproductions; authentic signs often have manufacturing stamps or markings on the back.
Phillips 66 Shields (1940s-1960s)
These were also made of porcelain or tin and featured the brand’s distinctive black and orange color scheme. Large double-sided signs mounted on poles are particularly valuable, often commanding several thousand dollars. Collectors specially prize signs that are in good condition and still have their original mounting brackets.
Budweiser Clydesdales Signs (1950s-1970s)
The most valuable Budweiser Clydesdale signs date back to the mid-20th century. Some feature vibrant illustrations of horses pulling a wagon loaded with booze barrels. Clydesdale signs were designed as illuminated signposts, and authentic versions can fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on their size and functionality.
Sinclair Dino Signs (1930s-1960s)
You’re in luck if you have the porcelain versions of Sinclair Dino Signs. Collectors value the design and historical significance of these pieces. The brand’s green dinosaur logo is one of the most recognizable symbols in vintage advertising. Sinclair used porcelain and tin signs to promote its gas stations, often featuring its “Dino” mascot.
Pepsi-Cola Double-Dot Signs (1940s-1950s)
Another valuable vintage sign is Pepsi-Cola’s “double-dot” logo, used before 1951. Well-preserved versions sell for between $1,000 and $5,000. Made of porcelain or tin, the signposts often featured slogans like “Drink Pepsi-Cola.” This double-dot logo has two hyphens between “Pepsi” and “Cola,” which were later removed.
Mobil Pegasus Signs (1930s-1960s)
Mobil Pegasus, a red-winged horse, symbolizes American gas station history. Vintage Mobil signs featuring the Pegasus are highly collectible, especially porcelain versions. Original signs often have wear consistent with outdoor use, and large sizes mounted on poles or building facades will fetch you tens of thousands of dollars.
Chevrolet Bowtie Signs (1930s-1950s)
Since its inception, Chevrolet has maintained its bowtie logo. Old signs featuring the bowtie were used for models like the Bel Air or Corvette. Search for those that feature neon lighting or embossed details are most valuable. You can get between $1,000 to $10,000 or even more for them.
7-Up Bubble Signs (1940s-1950s)
Many baby boomers have memories of 7-Up’s bubbly branding, which was incorporated into colorful tin and porcelain signs. The brand’s logo complemented slogans like “You Like It, It Likes You.” Minor signs in excellent condition can sell for several hundred dollars, while more extensive examples may fetch over $1,000.
Goodyear Tires Signs (1930s-1950s)
Finding a Goodyear sign may not make you a millionaire, but it can fetch about $5,000. Signs featuring the iconic winged foot logo are a staple in vintage automobilia collections. Larger signs, especially those with double-sided designs, neon lighting, or vintage tire advertisements, are particularly desirable.
