Vintage porcelain signs, often referred to as enamel signs, were a popular form of advertising from the late 19th to the mid-20th century. These signs are prized for their durability, vibrant colors, and historical charm, making them sought-after collectibles.
Collecting Vintage Porcelain Signs
1. Understanding the Porcelain Sign Market:
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- Rarity: Signs that are less common due to limited production or specific branding tend to be more valuable. Most valuable porcelain signs tend to be considered holy grails. While a lot of signs are considered rare there are also signs that are very popular. Popular porcelain signs can still hold value as it can be much more exciting to display a popular sign than one nobody has ever seen.
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- Condition: Signs in excellent condition, with minimal to no rust, chips, or fading, command higher prices. The condition of your sign can be the most important factor when trying to find the value.
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- Brand and Design: Signs from well-known brands, especially in the automotive industry like gas and oil companies, or those with unique, eye-catching designs, are generally more valuable. However, large brands also produced many more signs. This can also be a downfall. The size of a sign can be a significant factor in determining the value of an original porcelain sign.
2. Where to Find Vintage Porcelain Signs:
Antique Shops: These are traditional venues where you might find original porcelain signs near you.
Online Platforms: There are a few good places for finding porcelain signs online.
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- Websites like Morphy Auctions offer an online auction. They require registering on their platform to be able to bid. They often have auctions of automobilia and petroliana. See their upcoming auctions here. The best part about Morphy Auctions is you know you are getting something authentic.
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- eBay is one of the most popular places to find porcelain signs for sale online.
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- Barrett-Jackson is another great place to find anything related to vintage automobiles, gas & oil and advertising signs. Registration must be done well in advance and has a fee. However, you have access to authentic porcelain signs that a lot of people don’t. Usually, signs in the very beginning of those auctions go for the fraction of the price as people aren’t warmed up to bidding yet.
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- Mecum Auctions is a household name for selling vehicles and collectibles like antique signs. This site also requires registration.
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- Meta (Formerly Facebook Marketplace) has online forums but it’s very hard to weed out spam and online scams.
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- Flea Markets and Estate Sales: Often overlooked, these can be goldmines for rare antique signs! But usually require a short road trip somewhere.
3. Authenticating a porcelain sign.
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- Material and Finish: Genuine signs can have a smooth, glossy finish with vibrant colors. Look for signs of age like rust patterns on the back or around edges.
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- Grommets and Holes: The presence and condition of grommets can indicate authenticity.
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- Documentation: Any historical documentation or provenance adds to the sign’s authenticity and value.
Appraisal Process & How to Value Porcelain Signs.
1. Initial Assessment:
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- Visual Inspection: Check for damage, color vibrancy, and any signs of repair or restoration.
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- Historical Research: Determine the age, brand, and rarity through research or by consulting with experts. Taking pictures and posting them online can be helpful. Make sure to include accurate measurements and take pictures of the front and back.
2. Professional Appraisal:
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- Appraisers: Seek out appraisers specializing in antique advertising signs. They can provide a detailed valuation based on current market trends, condition, rarity, and historical significance.
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- Certification: Some appraisers might offer certification which can be useful for insurance or resale.
3. Valuation Methods:
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- Comparative Analysis: Compare your sign to similar items sold recently. Websites like Morphy Auctions or auction results from places like Barrett-Jackson can give insights. The value of a collectible like porcelain signs is usually defined by what anyone is willing to pay. Popular brand names help with collectability and resale.
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- Consultation with Dealers: Dealers who buy and sell these signs often know the market value.
4. Where to Find Information on the Value:
TV, Books and Guides: Publications on antique advertising can provide historical context and value ranges. See “More Porcelain Enamel Advertising” by Schiffer Book for Collectors. However, books become outdated quickly as porcelain signs and their collectability is only getting more popular. American Pickers is also a famous place to find value in porcelain signs. As entertaining as the show is, it’s rare to find deals like they do. But there is always knowledge about antique porcelain signs in the show.
Tips for Porcelain Sign Collectors
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- Start Small: Begin with less expensive or damaged signs. Stay away from restoration products as that can become overwhelming.
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- Network: Join clubs or online groups where collectors share knowledge and tips.
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- Preservation: Store signs in a dry, cool place. Consider professional restoration for damaged signs, but remember, over-restoration can decrease value.
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- Stay Informed: The market for antiques can be volatile. Keeping up with trends through forums, social media, or collector meetups can inform you of rising or falling values.
Conclusion; Your Sign Collection Goals.
Your overall goal should be to increase your enjoyment by displaying the sign in your collection. Collecting vintage porcelain signs combines history, art, and investment. By understanding the nuances of authenticity, condition, and market trends, collectors can not only enjoy their hobby but also potentially profit from it. Always remember, the joy of collecting often lies in the hunt and the stories behind each piece as much as in their monetary value.
