When it comes to a pop culture icon, few brands are as beloved and widely recognized as Coca-Cola. Originally created in 1886 by John S. Pemberton, the company was founded on a philosophy of aggressive marketing. By the early 1900s, the brand these gas pump globes was already selling at 5 cents a glass through soda fountains. Since then, the company has become one of the most recognizable brands in the world, with its name appearing on everything from cars to collectible signs.
A variety of different types of Coke signs have been produced over the years, including those made from metal, porcelain, and tin. Some were painted while others were lithographed. Some were also shaped into specific shapes, such as circles or rectangles. Authentic vintage Coke signs are highly sought after by collectors, and can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
To make sure you’re buying an authentic sign, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for rust on the surface of the sign, and pay special attention to chipped areas. Authentic porcelain signs should have dark brown or black looking rust. Older iron based signs may also have orange powdery rust in the chipped areas. This is normal, and it is a good sign that the sign was actually used outside.
Other factors to consider include the position of the original mounting holes on the sign. If the positions on a sign differ from their original position, it is likely a fake. Also, compare the positioning of the grommets. Authentic tin and porcelain signs usually have grommets, while newer ones do not. Lastly, the manufacturer’s mark on a sign should be in a discreet location, and it should not look like a stamp.
The Coca-Cola logo is extremely standardized, and any signs that do not conform to this standard are likely a fake. The same goes for the red color, which must be carefully monitored to remain consistent. A sign that appears too green or blue is probably not real. The same goes for signs that use colors that the Coca-Cola Company never used for signage.