estateRUTH.

Identification

Magnolene Ford Oil Porcelain Flange Sign

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

The sign advertises 'Magnolene Ford Oil' specifically to 'reduce vibration', a direct reference to the Model T Ford's planetary transmission chatter.

Story

Magnolene was a brand of motor oil produced by the Magnolia Petroleum Company, which was active in the early 20th century before eventually being absorbed by Mobil. This specific sign dates to the 1910s-1920s, targeting the massive market of Ford Model T owners who needed specialized oil to address the car's notorious planetary transmission chatter. Petroliana advertising remains a highly robust collector market, with early porcelain flange signs commanding significant premiums.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

The visible side shows a striking cobalt blue and white color scheme, but the overall condition cannot be fully assessed without seeing the reverse side and the mounting flange. Porcelain signs are highly sensitive to edge chipping, rust around mounting holes, and loss of gloss.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

Petroliana advertising remains a highly robust collector market, with early porcelain flange signs commanding significant premiums. Items specifically tied to the Ford Model T era hold crossover appeal for both early automotive enthusiasts and general advertising collectors. High-grade examples with minimal chipping to the display fields are fiercely contested at auction, while lower-grade examples still find willing buyers as entry-level pieces.

Value Drivers

▲ Direct crossover appeal to both petroliana and early Ford automotive collectors

▲ Highly desirable double-sided flange format designed for perpendicular mounting

▲ Striking cobalt blue and white high-contrast porcelain enamel

Concerns

▼ Unverified condition of the reverse side — significant damage or rust could drop the value toward the $400 floor

▼ Unverified dimensions — reproductions exist, and a non-standard size would severely impact authenticity and value

▼ Unverified flange condition — bent or heavily rusted mounting flanges reduce the overall grade

Best Venue

Verify the dimensions (standard is 16"x22") and photograph the reverse side to narrow the value range. Once documented, consign to a specialist petroliana auction house to reach the dedicated collector base. Do not attempt to clean or polish the sign with abrasive materials.

Upside Potential

If the reverse side is confirmed to be in excellent condition (rated 8. 5 or higher) with minimal edge chipping and strong gloss, the sign could reach or slightly exceed the $2,500 high-end, aligning with top-tier auction results.

Authenticity Risk

medium

Porcelain petroliana signs are frequently reproduced due to high market values. While the visible side looks consistent with period manufacturing, the lack of dimensions and reverse-side photos prevents a definitive authenticity check. Verifying the standard 16"x22" size and checking for appropriate heavy shelving (layering) of the porcelain enamel is recommended.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 8 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Morphy Auctions· 2015-10-05
    MAGNOLENE FORD OIL "SOLD HERE" SIGN
    Link could not be verified.
    $5,700
  • Garage & General Store
    Magnolene Ford Oil Porcelain Flange Sign 1930s 16 x 22.5
    Link could not be verified.
    $2,800
  • Morphy Auctions (via Oldgas)· 2015-10-05
    Magnolene Ford Oil “Sold Here” Sign
    Link could not be verified.
    $2,500
  • eBay
    Magnolene Ford Oil Flange Sign 2 Sided Sold Here Gas Vintage Style Wall Decor
    Title states 'Vintage Style', indicating a modern reproduction rather than an authentic period sign.
    $42
  • Oil Capital Collectibles· 2025-08-05
    Magnolene Ford Oil Sold Here Porcelain Flange Sign
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price
  • Morphy Auctions· 2015-10-05
    Magnolene Ford Oil "Sold Here" Sign.
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price
  • 2022 Fall Harvest Sign Auction
    Magnolene Ford Oil DSP flange sign
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price
  • Route 32 Auctions· 2022-08-04
    Magnolene Ford Oil Flange Sign
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price