Item Report
Texaco Gasoline Motor Oil Porcelain Sign
By: The Texas Company (Texaco)
Style: Vintage Americana Advertising
Origin: United States
Materials: Porcelain enamel on steel
Age: Circa 1930s-1950s
Condition: Fair (heavy rust, chips, and bullet holes; displays well but unrestored)
Value: $400-$900 (auction estimate, accounting for condition)
Maker's Marks / Writing: Lettering: 'MADE BY THE TEXAS COMPANY' appears clearly at bottom. No additional marks visible.
Date: 2025-06-03 17:12:10.913928
Description:
A large, round vintage advertising sign from Texaco, featuring the classic red star and green 'T' logo with bold text reading 'GASOLINE MOTOR OIL.' The sign is made of heavy porcelain enamel on metal, showing significant signs of age and outdoor use, such as rust, chipping, and bullet holes. These signs were commonly displayed at gas stations in the mid-20th century.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This example is a desirable collectible among petroliana enthusiasts due to its strong imagery and iconic branding. The sign shows extensive surface rust, chips, and several bullet holes—common for genuine pieces exposed to the elements. Despite condition issues, authentic large Texaco porcelain signs remain in demand. Restoration would diminish value; collectors prefer original patina with honest wear.
Individual Images:
- There are clear details in the image showing authentic wear including chipping in the porcelain enamel
- surface rust
- especially around mounting holes and exposed edges
- and several bullet or pellet holes—common in original roadside signs found in rural locations. The reverse is not shown
- so no comments on possible touch-ups or repairs.
Provenance:
No provenance documentation provided.
Condition:
Fair (heavy rust, chips, and bullet holes; displays well but unrestored)
Identification Score: 98%
The classic design, materials, and wear patterns are highly consistent with authentic mid-century Texaco porcelain signage, allowing for high confidence in the identification.
Authenticity Score: 85%
The sign's visible weathering, period-correct porcelain enamel construction, and correct logo details indicate authenticity, though an in-person inspection would be required for absolute certainty.
Image Memory Note
Keywords
Texaco, Gasoline, Motor Oil, Porcelain Sign, Advertising, Petroliana, Americana, Vintage, The Texas Company
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