Porcelain Vintage Signs: Knowledge Is Power  

Those who know what they are doing can amass a fortune collecting these American iconic advertisements, as well as many hour of enjoyment that can be shared with other collectors and discussing the hobby. 

Here are a few rules to use as guidance for the beginning collector of porcelain vintage signs:

The first rule of thumb is “If The Sign Looks Too Good To Be True, Then Buyer Beware”. In other words, when collecting vintage porcelain and tin litho signs, distinguishing between genuine items and reproductions can be challenging. Many reproductions closely mimic the original, and this can often make it difficult to determine whether a sign is original or not. Below are a few tips that can help you identify the difference between real and fake signs.

1. Materials and Weight: Authentic vintage signs are typically made of high-quality materials like porcelain or heavy-gauge metal. Examine the weight and feel of the sign. Genuine signs are often heavier than reproductions and other times it opposite depending who made the fake . This is also why a certified appraisal can’t be done with photos only.
2. Look for Aging Signs: Genuine vintage signs will show signs of age, wear, and weathering. Look for rust, chipping, fading, and other forms of distress that naturally occur over time. Be very cautious of OLD NEW STOCK with out proof of original origin. Many signs sold at auctions are sold as buyer be ware.  Old new stock almost always come with the original labeled box or shipping info or a source  of origin
3. Backside Inspection: Examine the back of the sign. Authentic porcelain vintage signs usually have a specific type of backing, such as porcelain enamel, while reproductions might have a different finish. Also the racking marks on back can tell the whole story of how it was made. Also the feel of the shelving will also tell the true story of real or fake. Remember Fake signs are decorator items at best and have no long term value and no place in a true collectors collection.
4. Manufacturer’s Markings: Some Genuine vintage signs often have manufacturer markings or logos that are set in the porcelain or original paint process . Research the original manufacturers of the signs you are collecting and look for authentic markings. Reproductions can mimic these marking so close that even experts are fooled. However over time experience will allow you to sort this problem out.
5. Colors and Fonts: Pay attention to the colors and fonts used on the sign. Vintage signs often have specific color palettes and typography styles that may be difficult for reproductions to replicate accurately.
6. Check for Reproduction Markings: Some reproductions include markings indicating that they are not authentic vintage items. Look for any modern copyright dates, “Made in China” “Made in India”  labels, or other indicators that suggest a reproduction. Keep in mind the higher the cost of the real sign the more reproductions are made to fool you.  Coping Americas iconic history has become big business over seas.
7. Research and Documentation: Thoroughly research the signs you are interested in collecting. Gather information about the manufacturing processes, historical context, and specific details of authentic signs. Documentation and provenance can also be essential in verifying authenticity. Notice This list is just the beginning of what you need to know to be sure what your purchasing is the real Mccoy.
8. Or Simply Call Us: A certified expert, that puts its money where its mouth is, we have many certified experts ready to help you today when you call 1-800-292-0008, to make you experience a productive and pleasant one. This will eliminate high pressure sales such as auctions and guarantee your success. Backed by over 100 years of business reputation and experience, since 1913.

Identifying whether a sign is original or reproduction is a daunting task for most collectors no matter just beginning or seasoned. We are the largest and oldest company specializing in these historic American industrial revolution icons, operating to world class museum standards and with an unmatched level of expertise. Please call us at 1-800-292-0008, and these services are always free of charge to our collector customers.

Remember that the market for vintage signs is dynamic, and new reproductions may constantly emerge. Staying informed and continuously educating yourself about the specific signs you collect will improve your ability to differentiate between genuine vintage items and reproductions. Our experts are always on the cutting edge of this market and are ready and willing to share with you this info.