How To Tell If A Metal Sign Is A Reproduction

How to Tell if a Metal Sign is a Reproduction

Finding a vintage metal sign can be incredibly exciting, especially for collectors. However, the market is flooded with reproductions, making it crucial to know how to distinguish an authentic piece from a cleverly crafted fake. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify genuine vintage metal signs and avoid costly reproductions.

Visual Inspection: The Key to Authenticity

The first step in verifying a metal sign's authenticity is a thorough visual inspection. Pay close attention to the following details:

1. Paint and Color:

• Authentic Signs: Often exhibit signs of age, including fading, chipping, and wear. The colors might be duller and less vibrant than their modern counterparts. Look for natural weathering patterns, not artificially distressed effects. Craquelure (fine cracking in the paint) is common in older signs.
• Reproductions: Frequently have a uniform, overly-bright, and almost too-perfect paint job. The colors may appear too saturated or unrealistic for their age. Artificial distressing is often noticeable and lacks the subtlety of natural wear.

2. Metal and Surface:

• Authentic Signs: The metal itself will show signs of age and use. There might be rust, dents, scratches, and surface imperfections that tell a story of its history. The metal gauge (thickness) can be a clue; older signs might be thicker or thinner depending on the era.
• Reproductions: Often use thinner, cheaper metal. The surface might feel smoother and less textured than an original. The lack of authentic wear is a tell-tale sign.

3. Print Quality and Design:

• Authentic Signs: Early signs may exhibit imperfections in the printing process, such as slight misalignment, inconsistencies in color, or faded areas. The graphic design will reflect the style and trends of the era.
• Reproductions: Generally boast sharper, cleaner, and more consistent printing. Details are often overly crisp and lack the subtle imperfections found in vintage signs. Examine the font style – some reproduction fonts are easily recognizable as not being historically accurate.

Beyond the Visual: Deeper Investigation

Once you've completed a visual inspection, it's time to delve a little deeper:

1. Backside Examination:

• Authentic Signs: The back might reveal rivets, welds, or manufacturing processes common to the era. Look for any markings or stamps that indicate the manufacturer or date of production. Rust and paint build-up on the back are common.
• Reproductions: The back is often cleaner and lacks the irregularities typically seen on older signs. They might be stamped with misleading or anachronistic markings.

2. Researching the Sign's Details:

• Authentic Signs: If you can identify the business or product advertised, research the company's history. This can provide valuable context and help determine if the sign's design and style align with the company's marketing materials from that period.
• Reproductions: Often depict businesses that never existed or use designs inconsistent with the company's historical branding.

3. Consulting Experts:

If you're still unsure, consider consulting with experienced collectors or appraisers who specialize in vintage metal signs. Their expertise can offer invaluable insights and help you definitively determine authenticity.

Conclusion: The Importance of Careful Examination

Buying vintage metal signs can be a rewarding hobby, but it’s essential to approach it with caution. By carefully examining the sign's visual characteristics, investigating its details, and even consulting experts, you can significantly improve your chances of acquiring a genuine piece of advertising history rather than a well-crafted reproduction. Remember, patience and careful observation are key to successful vintage sign collecting.