Free Vintage Advertising Appraisal Guide: Brand, Material, Size, Condition, Originality and Demand

Quick value checklist

• Identify type: porcelain sign, tin sign, enamel sign, clock, thermometer, bottle, display, poster, crate, or branded premium.
• Check brand, maker, date, size, material, mounting holes, graphics, surface, originality, and restoration.
• Photograph rust, bends, chips, fading, repainting, touch-ups, replaced glass, repaired neon, and mounting damage.

Key value drivers

Vintage advertising value depends on brand demand, age, material, rarity, size, graphics, originality, condition, and whether the item is a sign, clock, display, bottle, or later reproduction.

When to get a professional appraisal

Use the free screener first. Move to a professional appraisal when the item may be rare, restored, insured, part of an estate, high-value, or connected to a branded collection.

Photo checklist

• Full front, back, edges, maker marks, date, size, mounting holes, material, surface texture, and scale reference.
• Close-ups of chips, rust, fading, repainting, bends, replaced parts, repaired neon, cracked glass, and labels.