samedi 25 janvier 2014

Finding Vintage Signs For Sale

By Judy Sullivan


The difference between antique and vintage signs for sale is three fold. The age of a sign is the most well known, followed closely by subject matter, and whether or not it is the original or a reproduction of an original sign. Another difference is the value or cost of the sign. The value of an original pre-war twenty four gage steel porcelain or enameled sign is infinitely higher than a tin reproduction regardless of how perfectly the sign has been reproduced.

The twenty four gage steel signs are very rare today because after WWII ended they were too expensive to make and the advertising companies used tin in its place. They continued to use enamel paints for enhanced color performance. The tin examples are easier to find than their predecessors because more were produced and displayed after the war ended.

The companies that create the reproductions artificially age them so that they appear to be older than they are. This is accomplished by letting the pieces rust and then punching holes in the corners to facilitate hanging on the wall. Many collectors use these items for decorating the walls in their dens or garages. Cars and automotive related items are some of your most sought out items by collectors.

There are twelve unique types of sign that can be purchased. Many of these are made from glass and neon gas. The range of materials used covers virtually anything flat that can be painted, drawn on or pictures and printed words displayed. Some of the more available collectibles might be push plates from doors or self framed items that hang independently on walls. Coke is one of your more prolific advertisers available with serving trays, wall hangings, trolley cards and porcelain enamel items that are virtually weather proof.

Most collectors do not mind if the piece they purchased is a reproduction or authentic. The main goal is how it looks on the wall when added to the decor that is already in place. Many feel that even though the advertising industry no longer uses this format for ads, their charm will always remind us of simpler times that have gone past.

When you are looking for treasures in the form of a metal sign some of the best places to look are yard sales, thrift stores and flea markets. There is always a chance that you will find something of value in any of these locations. Some of the merchandise can be authenticated and shown to be valuable.

Country stores are sometimes a very good place to find authentic pieces. Many times you can find a sign still on the wall or building from when it was first placed there. You can never go wrong inquiring about it and whether it is for sale or not.

When starting to collect vintage signs for sale the only things you should bear in mind is how much room you have to hang it and how much excess money you have to spend on it. You will be hard pressed to make a mistake and the method you use can be selective or random. Whichever style you use you are sure to find enough signage to satisfy your needs.




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