Weekend find - Chevy auto show sign

[70 copo]

One sure way to find out what you have there. Unscrew the case and look inside. I collect vintage lighted signs and they are graded by value based upon originality. Many originals being sold have refurbished light bulbs starters, cords, and on some light units the entire display fascia is replaced.

Originals will typically have a UL (underwriters laboratory) tag inside.

Without taking it apart, If it is all original and vintage it should have a slow non electronic starter inside. One way to check without disassembly is to closely observe when you light it. When voltage is applied there will be a slight delay followed by a flash or two and you will hear a "dink-dink" noise from inside the unit.

[scuncio]

Sure, I'll pull the cover off and see.

I know it's tough to convey in pictures, but there's no doubt in my mind that this sign is at least a few decades old. It does have the old-time ballast that takes a few seconds to energize all the bulbs. There are a couple maker's labels on the case but they are too hard to read due to wear.

I'm not really concerned about value - for what I paid for it, I felt it was worth it regardless of its origin.