The Needful Thing

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An exceedingly rare DSPN (double sided porcelain neon), this is the only example Richmond Auctions has ever seen. Presenting in very nice condition, the sign has the bullnose mounted back-to-back on the original can and shows good color and gloss with minor imperfections such as some surface wear and chips near the “D.”

Believed to have originated from a New York City theatre, this sign is made up of two die cut SST (single sided tin) 20-star United States flag-shaped signs mounted back-to-back on the original metal can with lighted bulbs. It exhibits general wear on both sides with age toning and fading. The original can is mounted atop a holder with rotator and heavy steel base. This unique sign has strong eye appeal and displays very well.

Perfect for hanging on a wall, this vertical Texas Automotive sign is in the shape of an arrow pointing to the left with a neon border and lettering. The SSP (single sided porcelain) sign features a metal can in excellent condition, and has excellent color and gloss with light wear and small chips. Overall, it presents beautifully.

Rare, dual-branded, multi-piece SSPN (single sided porcelain neon) signs mounted back-to-back on the original can, above SST (single sided tin) cloud signs. Presenting with excellent color and gloss, the Chevrolet side has a clean field and is marked Walker & Co. Detroit. The Buick side has a clean field with light edge wear and is marked Sims Adv. Originally from the Taylor Motor Company in Taylor, Texas, overall, this is an incredible and rare porcelain neon advertising sign uniquely promoting two brands

Mounted on a new can and in working condition, this multi-piece porcelain neon Ford Jubilee sign displays well and is marked Mulholland Sign Co. Kalamazoo, Michigan. All four panels show chipping, mainly isolated around the mounting holes and along the edges, but Richmond says it’s one of the best they’ve seen.

Perhaps the most impressive about this tether car is that it was produced by the Duesenberg Model Company under the direction of Augie Duesenberg himself. This restored example is powered by an ignition Super Cyclone engine and is complete with coil, condenser, wiring, fuel tank, and exhaust pipe. The paint finish is brilliant and the graphics are hand-laid gold leaf.

Built by noted tether car artist Randy Giovenale, this 1998 Morton M-5 features a hand-formed body in the style of a Post War sprint car. A 5-cylinder airplane engine provides the power and the car features a detailed cockpit and wire wheels. The Morton M-5 engines have become exceedingly rare and very desirable; the builder essentially built his car around the demands of the size and power of the M-5.