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The History Of Vintage Porcelain Signs

By Eugenia Dickerson


It was in the 1880s that vintage porcelain signs began to be used and this continued until the 1950s. They could be used outside because they were hard wearing and could stand up to different weather conditions. Originally, this signage was manufactured in Germany and German craftsmen were brought out to the United States by manufacturers.

Many companies used this form of media to advertise their businesses. The signage usually contained all of the information about the company, as well as their logo and sometimes a catch phrase. Hundreds of potential consumers would see them on a daily basis. Some of them were double sided and hung outside the business on brackets. Others were attached to outside walls.

The signage initially consisted of layers of powdered glass fused onto rolled iron. The iron was die-cut into various different shapes. A base coat of one color would be fired and then text and graphics would be stenciled on, representing the different areas of color. The colors would be fired on top of one another until the whole graphic was completed. This was a labor intensive process and fairly costly.

When silkscreening was introduced instead of stenciling, it provided a way of keeping costs lower and increasing production. It was not long before intense competition arose between manufacturers. They were all seeking to produce the boldest colors and most memorable graphics.

It is often hard to find pieces in good condition. World War 11 was the biggest factor responsible for this as much of the remaining signage was melted down for the iron. Once the war ended, metal was in short supply and costs of production were just too high. Other metals like steel were used and eventually plastic signage became popular.

This type of signage is still being produced by some manufacturers today but this is on a limited basis. Many reproductions are being made too and collectors need to have some knowledge to discern a knockoff from a real antique. Aging techniques are being used to produce knockoffs that look very convincing.

Many collectors of these items go for those that were used by the automotive industry. Old gasoline signs with their distinctive logos are a favorite. Collecting pump plates is often a good way for a beginner to start collecting. These plates would be used at every gasoline pump giving the brand and octane rating. Another popular category of collectors is those who go for signage used in country stores, where anything from loaves of bread to cigarettes were advertised.

When it comes to this signage, the condition is an obvious factor in determining price. If an item is in mint condition, it is more expensive. Some items with little damage, like some rusting or scratching still fetch good prices. A large item may be purchased at a cheaper price than a smaller one as it is more difficult to display.

Regardless of where they have been or what they were been used for, vintage porcelain signs are a hot commodity and a huge part of historical memorabilia. Collectors fight over them are often prepared to pay top prices. They offer the privilege of experiencing the feel of another time in history.




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