13 Retro Auto Signs That Can Go for Hundreds

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Ford V8 Dealership Porcelain Sign

This vintage porcelain sign from Ford, featuring the iconic V8 logo, was used by dealerships and service stations to advertise the Ford brand. The sign likely dates back to the 1940s or 1950s and is characterized by its bright red and blue enamel colors. Collectors value the V8 logo for its historical significance and the Ford brand’s association with American automotive history.

When in good condition, the value of such signs can exceed $600. The market value is driven by demand from collectors of automotive memorabilia and those interested in vintage signage. High-quality examples with no damage or restoration work tend to fetch the highest prices.

Chevrolet Bowtie Embossed Metal Sign

This embossed metal sign features the classic Chevrolet Bowtie logo, used in dealerships and service stations. It’s typically found in either a round or rectangular shape, with a bold blue and white color scheme that stands out on any display wall. The embossed nature of the sign gives it texture and depth, adding to its visual appeal.

Depending on the size and condition, the value of these signs can range from $350 to $500. Signs that retain their original vibrant colors and are in near-mint condition tend to be the most valuable. Their popularity among vintage car collectors and those with a passion for Chevrolet memorabilia keeps the market steady.

Texaco Aircraft Porcelain Sign

Texaco’s “Aircraft Gasoline” porcelain sign features an aviation motif, popular in the early to mid-20th century when the company expanded its reach into the aviation fuel market. The sign’s round or rectangular shape often has bold graphics of an airplane, which not only appeals to petroliana collectors but also aviation enthusiasts. The use of porcelain gives the sign durability and a high-quality finish that resists fading.

A well-maintained Texaco Aircraft Porcelain sign can be worth around $900. Size and condition play a major role in its value, with the rare larger versions commanding a higher price. The appeal of these signs has grown due to their unique connection between gas stations and aviation history, making them a sought-after collector’s item.

Shell Gasoline Porcelain Pump Plate Sign

The Shell Gasoline porcelain pump plate sign was designed to be mounted on gas pumps or near service station equipment. Its eye-catching red, yellow, and black color scheme features the iconic Shell logo, which is instantly recognizable to vintage signage collectors. These signs were produced in various sizes, and their durable porcelain material has helped them withstand the test of time.

Market values for these pump plates range from $120 to $300 depending on the condition and rarity of the specific design. Some variations of the Shell logo, particularly the ones that include the “Motor Oil” branding, can increase the price. Well-preserved examples with bright colors and minimal signs of wear continue to be highly prized in the collecting community.

Mobilgas Pegasus Porcelain Sign

Mobilgas Pegasus porcelain signs, depicting the famous winged horse logo, are one of the most iconic and collectible pieces of automotive advertising. These signs were used by Mobil service stations and garages to promote gasoline products during the 1950s and 1960s. The image of the flying Pegasus, a symbol of strength and speed, is as synonymous with vintage service stations as the brand itself.

Original Mobilgas Pegasus porcelain signs can be valued between $400 and $700, depending on their size and condition. Larger signs with well-preserved bright colors can push the price even higher. Collectors particularly look for these signs in pristine condition, as the bright red and white Pegasus design makes them stand out in any collection.

Firestone Tires Service Station Porcelain Sign

Firestone Tires was a leading tire manufacturer, and their service station porcelain signs were used to advertise tire sales and service. The signs typically feature bold red and white graphics, often with the Firestone name and tire imagery that instantly evoke images of vintage service stations. The design focuses on the brand’s long history in the automotive industry, making these signs a popular choice for collectors of automotive and advertising memorabilia.

Depending on the size and condition, these signs can be valued between $500 and $650. Highly sought-after signs in mint condition with vibrant colors or rare variations may fetch higher prices. The appeal of Firestone signage lies not only in the company’s historical importance but also in the broad appeal to both automotive enthusiasts and advertising collectors.

Esso Tiger Porcelain Sign

The Esso Tiger porcelain sign is one of the more striking and rare signs in the world of vintage automotive advertising. The tiger mascot was used in various marketing campaigns by Esso in the mid-20th century, and this sign typically features a bright red and yellow color scheme with a bold tiger illustration. The playful mascot gave Esso a unique identity that remains well-loved by collectors of vintage gas station memorabilia.

Prices for these signs typically range from $250 to $400, depending on size and the condition of the piece. The tiger logo itself is considered a rare and desirable variation, so well-maintained signs featuring this image can command higher prices. The appeal lies in both the Esso brand’s legacy and the charming nature of the tiger mascot.

Michelin Enamel Tyres Sign

This Michelin enamel tyre sign, typically round or rectangular, was used to advertise Michelin tires at service stations or garage workshops. The sign’s enamel finish makes it durable and resistant to wear and fading, allowing it to last for decades. It’s simple, yet bold design featuring the Michelin man or the tyre branding, appeals to both automotive enthusiasts and collectors of tire-related memorabilia.

These signs are typically valued around $350 for a standard size and in good condition. Larger versions or those with unique graphics can see values closer to $500 or more. Their long history in the tire industry and the globally recognized Michelin name continue to maintain a steady demand for these signs in the collectibles market.

Phillips Jetsons Porcelain Sign (1963 )

This unique Phillips 66 porcelain sign, bearing the Jetsons motif, was produced in 1963 and features a vintage, mid-century design. The Jetsons-themed graphic is part of a series of signs produced by Phillips to target the future-focused generation of car buyers, and it combines automotive branding with a popular cultural reference. This sign stands out due to its rare design and nostalgic appeal, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

The market for this sign shows a range from $300 to $400, depending on condition and the rarity of the piece. Its appeal is bolstered by the unique Jetsons branding, which ties into both automotive and pop culture memorabilia. In good condition, these signs are an excellent addition to any collection of vintage gas station or advertising memorabilia.

Gulf Oil Racing Porcelain Sign

Gulf Oil’s Racing porcelain sign is a highly coveted piece in the world of automotive advertising memorabilia, featuring the iconic blue and orange Gulf colors. The sign, often found in vintage service stations or advertising race-related products, is celebrated for its connection to motorsports. Gulf’s sponsorship of high-profile racing events such as Le Mans and Formula 1 helps elevate the sign’s desirability among collectors of motorsport history.

A well-maintained Gulf Oil Racing porcelain sign can fetch anywhere between $400 and $550, depending on size and condition. Larger, rare versions of the sign featuring race-specific designs or additional markings related to famous events can command prices at the higher end of this range. Collectors particularly appreciate signs that retain vibrant colors and have minimal restoration.

Volkswagen Bug Service Dealer Porcelain Sign

This porcelain sign from Volkswagen showcases the beloved “Bug” (Beetle) logo, a symbol of one of the most iconic cars ever made. The sign was typically used in Volkswagen dealerships or service stations during the mid-20th century to promote sales and service for the classic Beetle. Its simple yet nostalgic design makes it a favorite among VW enthusiasts and collectors of vintage automotive advertising.

A typical market value for these signs ranges from $250 to $400, depending on size and condition. The value can be higher if the sign features rare color variations or if it’s in near-mint condition. With Volkswagen’s ongoing legacy in the automotive world, these signs continue to capture the attention of both collectors and car aficionados.

Pontiac Indian Dealership Badge Porcelain Sign

The Pontiac Indian Dealership badge porcelain sign was designed for Pontiac dealerships during the mid-20th century, showcasing the brand’s Native American-themed logo. This sign was typically used to advertise Pontiac vehicles, especially during the era when the brand was known for producing powerful cars like the GTO. The iconic Indian head logo on the sign is a symbol of Pontiac’s historical identity, making it an essential collector’s item for fans of vintage automobiles.

Market prices for Pontiac Indian signs range from $350 to $600 for those in good to excellent condition. Signs with less common variants or larger sizes can see values even higher. As Pontiac is no longer an active car manufacturer, these signs have become even more desirable for those looking to capture a piece of automotive history.

Phillips 66 Service & Parts Porcelain Sign

Phillips 66 produced these porcelain signs to advertise their service and parts departments in the mid-20th century. The bright red and white color scheme and the iconic Phillips 66 shield logo make this sign instantly recognizable. The sign was a prominent feature in many Phillips service stations, signaling both gasoline and auto repair services.

Estimated values for these signs generally fall between $300 and $450, with condition and size being the main factors influencing the price. Signs in near-mint condition or those with rare features, such as dealer-specific branding, can fetch higher prices. Collectors value these signs for both their historical importance and their connection to a well-known brand in the petroleum industry.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.