Overview
A large-format painted metal advertising sign featuring the iconic red, yellow, and green color scheme of the Kiekhaefer era.
1Identify
Preliminary identification
Kiekhaefer Mercury Outboards Dealer Sign, c. 1950s
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Carl Kiekhaefer, a brilliant and notoriously hot-tempered engineer, originally bought a bankrupt motor company in 1939 just to get his hands on some magnetic separators for his dairy business.
Maker / Origin
The Kiekhaefer Mercury brand was defined by its founder's obsession with speed and reliability.
Condition & Value
The sign shows authentic 'patina' including oxidation and surface rust along the edges and mounting holes, which is expected for a piece that likely hung outdoors. Original Kiekhaefer-era signs are highly prized in the 'petroliana' and marine advertising markets.
Research
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