Michael Satterfield
Gas and oil commercial art has a following like no other, collectors fill garages, mancaves, and museums with neon signs for gas stations, roadside diners, and their favorite carmakers. Ask any automotive enthusiasts and they will be quick to tell you which they would rather have hanging in the garage a Mobil’s Pegasus, a Sinclair’s Dino, or an original Gulf Oil sign. I may have to log on and big on some Gulf memorabilia myself.
While many events have been canceled the Morphy’s Automobilia & Petroliana Auction has shifted to a virtual format and is still scheduled for May 13-14, 2020. To meet state and federal guidelines for social distancing the auction will offer remote bidding, including absentee, phone, and live online through the Morphy website. Private gallery previews are still available by appointment at their Denver, PA location if you would like to see an item in person before bidding.
More than 800 premium-quality examples of gas, oil, and automobile-related collectibles are up for bit including 530 signs, 35 gas pumps, 46 gas pump globes, 51 cans, 30 license plates, and dozens of additional items.
Some of the most unique items include:
An elusive circa-1940s porcelain sign that advertises Harbor Petroleum Products, of Long Beach, California. Boasting 8.9+ condition, the eye-catching sign exhibits outstanding color and high gloss with an image of a Boeing 314 Clipper airplane coasting over water. Estimate: $40,000-$60,000.
A 1906 porcelain license plate with the numeral “1,” the very first one issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Absolutely unique and authentic, and accompanied by an extensive archive of supportive documentation. Estimate: $20,000-$40,000
An exceptional neon sign for Pacific Bait & Tackle. With Art Deco styling and letters that illuminate in four colors on each side, the focal point is a painted, neon-outlined fish leaping from a neon-detailed body of water. Estimate: $15,000-$25,000
A District of Columbia Inaugural license plate #10 from 1933, the first year that DC issued plates to commemorate presidential inaugurations. Estimate: $7,500-$12,500
Morphy’s Wednesday/Thursday, May 13-14, 2020 Automobilia & Petroliana Auction will start at 10 a.m. ET. For additional information on any item, to leave an absentee bid, arrange for a private gallery preview or set up a phone line for bidding, call 877-968-8880 or email [email protected]. View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid live online at www.morphyauctions.com.
