Vintage signs add a rustic, country or shabby chic touch to any room. They are sought after by decorators looking to fill those empty wall spaces with something interesting and unique, as well as collectors that appreciate the quality craftsmanship of these antique pieces. Whether made from porcelain, metal or tin, these signs are timeless and have become one of the most popular forms of collectable art. The popularity of vintage signs can be partly explained by their ability to transport us back in time. By showcasing common fonts and colours that were prevalent in a certain era, these pieces of nostalgia are a connection to our past. They can also remind us of a simpler, slower and more sentimental time.

While these signs are not only decorative, they are also highly functional. They can act as an advertisement for a particular brand, or as a way to advertise their products. Their design and manufacturing techniques are a reflection of the age they were made in, as well as the technology available at that time. Whether made from porcelain, metal or even tin, these signs are often one of a kind and can be quite rare.

Porcelain signs are one of the most prized types of vintage signs. They are known for their durability, bright and vibrant colors and the fact that they are incredibly difficult to replicate. The signs are usually double sided, with the text and graphics showing up better on the reverse side. These beautiful pieces of art are often very expensive, with many collectors willing to spend thousands on a single piece.

Other common types of vintage signs are those for various businesses and industries such as cafes, gas stations, banks and shops. They can be very valuable as they often feature iconic logos and branding. Another very popular category of vintage sign are those that are related to transportation, such as railway and airline signs. They are often very colourful and a great addition to any home or office space.

If you are interested in collecting these amazing pieces of history, you can find a wide variety of vintage signs for sale online and at local antique and flea markets. It is important to do your research and understand the market value of a particular sign, so that you are not overpaying or selling for too little. The more detailed a sign is and the more rare it is, the higher its value will be. Shape and condition can also affect the price. Signs that are die-cut in unusual shapes will often be more valuable than those that are plainer.

A good way to test the authenticity of a tin sign is to use a magnet to see if it sticks. Genuine tin signs will often stick to a magnet, while reproductions may repel one. You can also look for rust spots that are black-brown in colour. Another clue is the type of rivets used to hold the sign together – true vintage tin signs should have black and tarnished rivets, while modern ones might be made with aluminium and have brightly polished, shiny rivets.