10 Discontinued Auto Emblems and Badges That Sell Fast
Some auto emblems and badges carry more than just brand recognition; they represent the history and legacy of iconic vehicles. For collectors and car enthusiasts, these discontinued emblems often evoke memories of the cars they once adorned. Over the years, certain badges have become highly sought after, making them valuable pieces in the automotive world. Whether it’s a rare emblem from a vintage sports car or a badge that marked a limited edition, the appeal is undeniable. As time goes on and these pieces become harder to find, their value continues to rise. For those who appreciate the artistry behind car badges, owning one can feel like possessing a piece of automotive history. The market for these badges moves quickly, with collectors eager to add them to their collections.
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Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R Badge
The Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R badge was produced for a rare variant of the Cobra that came without many creature comforts to focus on performance. This badge shows a snake that makes it stand out from normal Cobra emblems. With under three hundred units made in some years, original badges are hard to locate. Collectors will pay between $300 and $500 depending on condition.
The metal holds fine over time but fading or scratches will reduce interest. Many owners place this badge on display boards in garages because it marks a special chapter in Mustang lore. Enthusiasts often track listings daily because they move fast when posted for sale. The rarity gives the badge weight with fans of high performance Mustangs. Restorers who build tribute cars want the emblem to complete their project authentically.
BMW M1 Front Grille Badge
The BMW M1 front grille badge was fitted to an iconic mid engine sports car from the late 1970s and early 1980s. This emblem sits on the front and signals the M1 model which was limited in production compared with other BMWs. Original examples are scarce and the surface usually shows age when found. A quality piece without cracks can fetch from $400 up to $700 in online auctions. Many buyers are restorers of the M1 or collectors of rare BMW memorabilia. The badge features color stripes that have stayed vibrant if stored out of sunlight.
When this badge appears for sale, it often receives many offers quickly. Some owners frame the badge or display it in automotive themed rooms. It stands as a reminder of German engineering from a distinct era in one of the most beloved classic BMWs. Because it is no longer available from dealers, each used emblem gains collector interest.
Chevrolet SS Hood Emblem
The Chevrolet SS hood emblem was made for the high performance SS badge on full size cars like the Chevy SS sedan and earlier Chevelles. This emblem was gloss black with chrome edges that matched the muscle car look of the vehicle. People restoring these cars want the original piece rather than reproduction alternatives. When an original shows up in good shape, sellers can ask between $200 and $350.
The emblem was mounted centrally on the hood and often endured weather which makes finding a clean one a challenge. Enthusiasts look for pieces with original clips still intact to save time on install. The emblem tells a story of American performance in an era when big engines were prized. Those who grew up admiring these cars place high value on original parts like this. Listings for this badge tend to be claimed within days. Collectors sometimes share photos of their emblem on social platforms to show condition before purchase.
Nissan Skyline GT-R KPGC110 Badge
The Nissan Skyline GT-R KPGC110 badge came from a rare generation of the Skyline known as the Kenmeri. This emblem is square with bold lettering that signals its connection to a legendary Japanese car. Because production numbers were low, few badges remain in good condition. A strong example can command around $350 to $550 from collectors in global markets.
The badge carried through rain and sunshine on the original cars which affects condition today. Restorers want badges that show original finish and minimal corrosion. When a listing appears in online circles, many replies appear quickly from interested buyers. People who love Japanese classic cars see this badge as a piece of history. Even without the car, the badge tells a story that resonates with fans. Those who own KPGC110 replicas sometimes add this badge for visual authenticity.
Dodge Charger Daytona Grill Emblem
The Dodge Charger Daytona Grill emblem was part of the high performance aerodynamic package that made this car famous in racing circles. This emblem was placed near the rear quarter panels and matched the bold graphics of the car. A piece in good shape typically sells around $300 to $500 due to interest from restorers.
The original finish often suffered from outdoor exposure so pristine examples are rare. Enthusiasts like to pair this emblem with matching hood stickers or wheel center caps. When listed in collector marketplaces, it often changes hands quickly. Some buyers frame the emblem with photos of the car that wore it. Many Charger fans regard this as one of the most iconic muscle car badges. It represents a time when design served both performance and style.
Acura NSX Badge
The Acura NSX was placed on the trunk of the first models that arrived in the United States. This emblem reflects the arrival of a Japanese supercar that held its own among European rivals. Many were removed during restorations or owner upgrades leaving only a few quality pieces. Good examples often ask for $250 to $400 on enthusiast forums.
The badge typically carries surface marks that reflect age so mint pieces are prized. Buyers appreciate original metal with good enamel and intact mounting tabs. This badge is more than a logo to owners who remember seeing the car in the 1990s. When available online, the badge receives many messages from fans who grew up with the NSX. Some collectors show it with brochures and photos from the original purchase. It is a piece that helps tie together stories from automotive history.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 Badge
The Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 badge was on the hatch of the original GTI that brought hot hatch appeal to many countries. The red GTI letters against black are recognized by enthusiasts around the world. Since the Mk1 has been out of production for decades, original badges are rare. A badge in solid condition can sell for $200 to $350. Many examples show fading or loss of color from years of sun exposure.
Buyers want pieces with deep color that do not look washed out. Restorers who want to keep the car’s look accurate place this badge at the top of their list. When offered for sale in collector groups, it often draws attention from European car fans. Some people save them for display panels with other iconic European car badges. Owning this badge links a person to the early days of hot hatch popularity.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Badge
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing badge is a highly sought-after emblem from one of the most iconic cars in automotive history. This emblem was affixed to the fender and trunk of the 300SL model, which was known for its distinctive gullwing doors and high-performance engineering. Due to the limited production numbers of the 300SL, original badges are rare and highly prized by collectors.
Depending on the condition, these badges can fetch anywhere between $600 and $1,200 in auction markets. The finish on these badges often fades over time, so finding one in pristine condition is a rare find. The 300SL emblem represents an era of innovation for Mercedes-Benz, and it’s a must-have for serious collectors of vintage car memorabilia.
Shelby Cobra 427 Badge
The Shelby Cobra 427 badge was issued for the high-performance 427 variant of the iconic Cobra sports car. This emblem was used on the rear deck of the car, marking its powerful engine and its status as a performance beast. Original Cobra 427 badges are incredibly sought after, as production numbers were limited. These badges are known to fetch around $500 to $800 depending on their condition and whether they come with the original backing hardware.
As the 427 is among the most revered of the Shelby Cobra models, the emblem symbolizes American automotive engineering at its finest. Restorers or collectors often look for these badges to add authenticity to their Cobra replicas or restorations. Given the badge’s historical significance, many collectors are willing to pay a premium for a well-preserved piece.
Audi RS2 Avant Badge
The Audi RS2 Avant badge is a rare piece from a limited-edition model that holds significant value in the Audi community. The RS2 Avant, known for being the first Audi to wear the RS badge, was a performance wagon with strong racing heritage. Audi produced only a few thousand units of this car, making the RS2 Avant badge an essential piece for collectors. Buyers can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $600 for a badge in good condition.
Over time, the emblems often suffer from wear and fading, making well-preserved examples even more valuable. For Audi enthusiasts, owning this emblem connects them to one of the brand’s most important performance milestones. The RS2 Avant emblem is highly desirable for both restorations of original models and as a display piece for Audi fans.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.