If you thought gasoline prices were expensive, just wait until you hear what an antique gasoline sign recently sold for at auction! A Musgo Gasoline sign recently sold for $1.5 million on the auction block. Richmond Auctions says the antique 48" double sided porcelain sign set a new world record for the most expensive antique advertising sign ever sold at auction. The $1.5 million (including the buyer's premium), shattered previous record of $400,000.
Richmond auctions says the sign, discovered in an attic in Michigan, is considered the Holy Grail of antique advertising signs by most collectors. It had never been seen by the public.
Musgo, originally located in Muskegon, Michigan, was believed to be open for less than six months during the mid-1920's. After it closed, most of their signs were used as septic tank lids causing one side to decay from septic fumes. But this sign wasn't. It was "new" old stock, never used as a septic tank lid, making it the best-known example of this legendary sign.
"Richmond Auctions was thrilled to have the opportunity to sell this one-of-a-kind collectible," said Jordan Richmond, Founder and CEO of Richmond Auctions. "This unique Musgo Gasoline sign was discovered without touchups, restoration, or enhancements, something unheard of for a collectible of this nature. The $1.5 million dollar price tag speaks to the great condition and uniqueness of this item."
To read more about the sign from the Richmond Auction website click here.
Photo Credit: Richmond Auctions.