14 Gas Station Collectibles That Are Hot with Collectors

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Vintage Porcelain Gas Station Sign

Vintage porcelain signs are not just relics of the past but symbols of the golden age of service stations. Often adorned with bold, colorful logos, these signs were originally designed for durability to withstand outdoor conditions. They were typically displayed at service stations to catch the attention of passing motorists, advertising fuel or the services available at the station.

The market for porcelain gas station signs can vary, with common examples typically valued at $200 to $500. However, rarer or larger signs from popular brands such as Texaco, Mobil, and Shell, in excellent condition, can fetch $2,000 to $5,000, especially if the branding and graphics remain vibrant and intact.

Gas Pump Globe

Gas pump globes were once a fixture on top of petrol pumps, serving both a functional and branding purpose. Made from glass or plastic, these globes were designed to illuminate at night, making them a noticeable beacon for drivers seeking a fuel stop. Each globe featured the logo of the gas company, from Texaco to Sinclair, making them iconic items that immediately evoke a sense of nostalgia.

These globes are widely sought after, with common examples typically valued at $300 to $600. However, rare models, especially vintage glass globes from well-known brands or those in mint condition, can sell for $1,000 to $2,500 or more, with some larger and more intricate versions fetching even higher prices.

Antique Visible Gas Pump

The visible gas pump is an iconic piece of automotive history, allowing customers to watch the gasoline being dispensed through a glass cylinder. These pumps were popular in the early 20th century and are a unique blend of functionality and design. Their nostalgic appeal stems from their connection to a time when filling up your vehicle was more of an experience than a quick stop.

Visible gas pumps can range widely in price, depending on their condition and brand. Unrestored examples might be valued at $500 to $2,000, while fully restored pumps from well-known brands can command prices upwards of $8,000 to $15,000. Rarer early models or pumps with unique features can even exceed these ranges, depending on market demand.

Vintage Oil Can or Tin

Oil cans from the mid-20th century are popular among collectors due to their vibrant, often colorful branding and their connection to the history of automobile maintenance. These cans, made from metal or tin, were once used to store motor oil and lubricants for cars and motorcycles, but they also served as a tool for advertising. The large, bold logos of oil companies like Mobil, Texaco, and Shell dominate the graphics on these cans, making them visually striking pieces.

Vintage oil cans are valued based on the rarity of their design and the condition they are in. A typical, common oil can might be worth around $75 to $300, while rare and highly sought-after cans, particularly those from well-known brands or in pristine condition, can command prices between $500 and $1,000.

Gas Station Service Station Road Map or Travel Card Set

Gas station road maps were once essential tools for travelers, providing directions, road conditions, and information on fuel stations along the way. These maps often feature vibrant graphics, with the oil company’s logo prominently displayed on the cover. They were handed out to customers at service stations as a form of advertisement, making them both practical and promotional.

The value of these maps can range from $10 to $60 for common versions, depending on their condition. However, rare first-edition sets, maps from long-gone oil companies, or those in excellent condition can reach $100 to $250, with some pristine examples even fetching $300 to $400.

Original Service Station Towel Dispenser or Display Unit

Towel dispensers used in service stations are nostalgic reminders of the days when these stations provided full-service, offering everything from windshield cleaning to tire checks. These units were typically mounted inside service stations, offering paper or cloth towels to customers after fueling. Many of these dispensers were adorned with the oil company’s logo, making them an integral part of the station’s branding.

A basic service station towel dispenser in good condition typically sells for $200 to $400, depending on the size and branding. However, rarer or larger models, particularly those with intact graphics or from well-known companies, can fetch prices ranging from $800 to $1,500, especially if they have been restored or remain in near-mint condition.

Vintage Advertising Thermometer or Clock from a Gas/Oil Company

Advertising thermometers and clocks were common fixtures at service stations in the mid-20th century. They served a dual purpose of providing customers with useful information (such as the time and temperature) while also prominently displaying the gas company’s branding. Many of these items were designed with large, clear faces that featured the company’s logo in bold colors, making them both functional and visually appealing.

Collectors are drawn to the nostalgia of these items, as they represent a time when customer service was more personal and service stations were essential stops on the road. Vintage thermometers or clocks from gas stations typically range from $400 to $900, depending on their condition and brand.

Oil Company Dealer Service Sign

Dealer service signs were displayed outside service stations to show that a location was an official distributor for a specific oil company. These signs often featured the oil company’s logo and were made of durable materials like metal or porcelain to withstand outdoor exposure. The graphic design of these signs was often bold and eye-catching, meant to attract passing motorists.

Depending on the rarity and condition of the sign, these items can sell for $150 to $400 for common examples. More desirable signs, particularly large, double-sided porcelain ones in excellent condition, can fetch prices between $1,000 and $2,500, especially if they represent a well-known, historic oil company.

Branded Gas Station Coin Bank or Tin Bank

Gas station coin banks were promotional items given away by oil companies as a way to encourage customers to save money while also promoting the brand. These banks were typically made from metal or tin and often featured the logo of the oil company, making them both functional and collectible. The appeal of these banks lies not just in their utility but in their connection to a time when service stations were central to road trip culture.

Branded gas station coin banks typically sell for $30 to $100 in fair to good condition. However, rare models, especially those from well-known companies or those that are still in their original packaging, can reach $200 to $500, with certain examples even surpassing this range if they are in pristine condition.

Original Gas Station Repair Service Menu Board

Service station repair service menu boards were once a central feature of gas stations, showcasing the various services offered, from oil changes to tire rotations. These boards were often designed with bold fonts and colorful graphics, making them eye-catching and informative. Most were made from metal, porcelain, or enamel and featured the branding of the oil company.

The price of these boards can vary depending on condition and rarity. A typical service menu board might be valued at $800 to $1,500 if it is in good condition and still retains its original colors and graphics. However, rare or larger boards, particularly those from well-known brands or with vintage designs, can command $2,000 or more, especially if restored or in excellent condition.

Fuel Container or Jug with Company Logo

Branded fuel jugs were once commonly used to store gasoline or motor oil, and they often featured bold logos of popular oil companies like Shell, Texaco, or Mobil. These containers were practical tools but also served as excellent advertising pieces, prominently displaying the company’s branding.

Fuel containers in good condition generally sell for $100 to $250, depending on size and branding. However, rare versions, especially those from iconic companies or with unique shapes and designs, can fetch $500 to $1,000, particularly if the jug is free from dents, rust, or fading graphics.

Gas Station Service Lamp or Light Fixture

Gas station service lamps and light fixtures were often used both inside and outside stations to illuminate the area and attract attention. Many of these fixtures featured the company’s branding prominently, either as part of the lamp itself or through a decorative globe or shade. These lamps were often powered by incandescent bulbs or, in some cases, neon lights, making them not only functional but also visually striking.

Depending on size and condition, service lamps or light fixtures can range in value from $300 to $600. Rare neon or glass models, especially those from top oil brands or those in original working condition, can fetch $1,000 to $2,500 or more, particularly if they retain their original vintage charm and functionality.

Gas Station Service Uniform Patch or Badge

Service uniform patches or badges were once a common feature of attendants’ uniforms at gas stations, indicating affiliation with a particular brand or company. These small but significant items often featured the company logo, and some were even awarded for years of service. They not only served a practical purpose but also provided branding for the company, making them valuable to collectors.

Standard patches typically sell for $30 to $100, depending on their condition and rarity. However, rare or special edition badges, particularly those from major oil companies or vintage designs, can reach $200 to $400, especially if they are in mint condition or feature unique elements like enamel detailing.

Oil‑Bucket or Lubricant Bucket with Lid

Oil buckets with company logos were commonly used to store motor oil or lubricants at service stations. They were practical items but were also designed with bold branding to catch the eye of customers. These buckets were often made of metal, featuring the logos of major oil companies and sometimes even bearing colorful advertisements. Due to their age and connection to early service station culture, these items are highly collectible.
The value of an oil bucket can vary based on size and condition. Common examples may range from $80 to $200, while rare or large-capacity versions, especially those with vibrant branding or from notable companies, can fetch $300 to $600 or more, particularly if the bucket is in excellent condition.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.