Vintage gas station signs are a relic of the past that capture the nostalgic spirit of American road travel. While many of these signs are in disrepair, a few have been restored to their former glory. These signs can be a conversation piece in any home or office. Whether you’re a classic car junkie or just looking for a unique way to decorate your space, these signs are sure to impress.

As automobiles became more prevalent, gas stations began to pop up all over the country. These establishments competed for motorists’ attention with eye-catching signage to attract traffic and sales. The result was an array of colorful, intricate, and beautifully designed signs that are now coveted by collectors.

Several factors influence the value of a vintage gas station sign, including rarity, condition, and brand recognition. Rarity is especially important, as fewer examples of a particular sign tend to be more desirable. In addition, a sign’s location can also impact its value. For example, a vintage sign from a famous gas station on Route 66 is often more sought-after than one from a smaller city or rural area.

In order to preserve and protect these historical pieces, collectors must treat them with care. Proper storage, cleaning, and maintenance are key to keeping them in pristine condition. For this reason, some collectors choose to display their signs in a museum-style setting. This not only protects the signs from damage, but also allows the public to appreciate their beauty.

As the popularity of these signs increased, a tight-knit community of collectors developed around them. These individuals share a passion for preserving the history of the gasoline industry and the aesthetics of a bygone era. They often tell stories about their experiences with collecting, from uncovering a rare pump in a barn to meticulously restoring a damaged sign. These personal touches give the hobby a sense of meaning and add to its allure.

One of the most well-known vintage gas station signs is a red-and-white sign from the short-lived Musgo gasoline company, which was located in Muskegon, Michigan. The sign is regarded as the most authentic one of its kind and recently sold for a record-breaking price. The previous owner was a local auto historian, who had planned to restore the sign. Sadly, he died before his work was completed, but his widow continued to restore the sign until it was finally sold in 2017.

If you are interested in purchasing a vintage gas or oil sign, you can find a great selection of them in our shop. We carry signs from companies like Standard Oil, Shell, Polly Gas, Texaco, and more. These signs are made in the USA, and some even have a little history behind them. For example, we have a sign from a former gas station that was built in 1921, and it is the only one of its kind known to exist. The sign was previously used as a septic tank lid, and one side of the sign is rusted from exposure to septic fumes.