Whether it’s an oversized sign that serves as a focal point in your living room or a plaque with a clever slogan that brings humor to your home office, old signs can make an excellent addition to your collection. And if you’re thinking about purchasing an enamel or porcelain sign, remember to check for the signatures of a reputable seller to ensure you’re getting the real thing. Then, display your sign with pride—and maybe start a conversation or two.
Old tin, enamel, or porcelain signs are usually very heavy and the letters should be raised above the background. They can also rust or deteriorate over time. Porcelain signs are particularly prone to chipping. It’s a good idea to examine a sign for any cracks, chips or damage, as it can be very expensive to repair them.
When deciding on the best type of sign for your home, consider its size and colors. Large signs can be focal points in a room, while small ones can work well as accent pieces. Also take into account the font and design of a sign’s lettering, as these can help draw attention and create visual interest in your space.
Many famous vintage signs have been around for decades, a few even centuries. Their presence in cities, towns and rural areas has left an imprint on the culture of a place. Some of them have been saved from demolition or whitewashing, thanks to efforts by local government and private citizens. And others have been preserved in a museum setting, such as the Hollywood Sign, which was built in 1923 and recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.
Other signs have been remade as a tribute to their original glory. Anna Newman has created a series of sculptures featuring the bright neon colors of motel signs that have been demolished in Reno. Her works, which include cardboard cut-outs of the signs and faux neon (LED ropes in silicone cases), are displayed at UNR’s Student Galleries South.
Neon signs became popular in the 1920s and have had a revival in popularity over the past few years. They use gaseous argon and mercury (doped with a bit of iron) to produce the glowing effects, and come in a variety of colors, from red and orange to blues and greens. They’re often used on restaurant and bar signage, but are also seen on TV shows like Miami Vice and Magnum P.I.
