Login 10 March 2010
PLAIN ENAMEL SIGNS WANTED IN BULK
This site is maintained and produced by Alex Renshaw from Advertising Antiques Ltd. I will be appearing on the BBC Television Program Car Booty in September 2008 as a specialist buyer of old tins and as a Enamel Sign collector on Bargain Hunt to be aired in October 2008. Read more HERE
Who do we buy from?

We are interested in helping out genuine sellers by offering them a market rate for items wanted for our collection and giving accurate valuations. Yes we sell things too, but it's only to feed the collecting obsession we have with old advertising and graphic design. We are not get-rich-quick profiteers, but genuine enthusiasts who collect many topic areas with a passion and care about preserving British social history as well as our reputation in the business!

We are interested in buying any of the following items either as single items or in bulk. Being keen collectors we can offer highly competitive prices on old advertising and shop related items; especially old enamel signs, early tobacco, cigarette, tea and food tins, showcards, labelled bottles with or without contents, packets, jars and boxes as well as glass signs, chocolate - tobacco cabinets and dummy display items.
Who are we?
We are a father and son team based in Worcestershire who have been collecting for over fifty years between us. During this time we have specialised in Automobilia, all sweet shop, tobacconist and chocolate related advertising as well as the general Victorian and Edwardian grocery store items.
Contact Us

Please call me on 07941 971 039

Text Pictures for instant prices to me on 07941 971 039

Best regards, Alex Renshaw.

Please use the email form at the bottom of the page to send us an email or click HERE. Or use mail@advertisingantiques.co.uk. If you do not hear back within 24hrs, you can also contact me on oldshopstuff@googlemail.com

What do we collect?

OLD IRON BACKED ENAMEL SIGNS
Well, to put it plainly, we are addicted to collecting old vitreous enamel signs made before the war and buy them in any condition providing they have a picture on them and if there is not a better example already in the collection. The ones we tend to go for are smaller, more colourful examples with pictures on them, but we will buy larger examples as long as the picture is impressive. Topics which interest us in particular are chocolate, cocoa, sweets, petrol, oil, confectionary, tea, beer and whisky as well as old car manufacturers. We are happy to arrange to collect single items or will buy whole collections of 100+ signs to get rarer enamel signs for our collection.
OLD LITHOGRAPH TIN SIGNS
Tin signs didn't last well and are rare to come across in good condition. Again we collect lithograph printed tin signs that are pictorial and have detailed - fancy lettering on them often picked out with a gold laquer. Favourite topics include soap, starch, tobacco, cigarettes, chocolate, sweets, soap, starch, confectionary, cocoa, beer and mineral water. There are thousands of reproductions on the market though, so unless you know the history of the sign, chances are we would not be interested in it. One good way to tell between the old and the new is to look at the back, if it has the remains of a gold lacquered varnish type finish covering it, it is probably original. Size doesn't mater for tins signs, but there has to be over 6 colours and dotted print for us to pay top money for them.
OLD SHOWCARDS, SHOP DISPLAY CARDS, CARD SIGNS & ADVERTISING POSTERS
The dotted lithograph printing technique was also used in the Victorian and Edwardian eras to great effect when producing advertising posters and old card shop signs. As a result, we are keen to purchase original examples and tend to pay the most for signs with product packets, people dressed in period clothes, good looking women, children and factory scenes on them. Condition is vital in terms of value, but we are also interested in people who wish to sell us damaged examples for our reference archive. Originality is also a problem with card signs which have been reproduced in their thousands. This has adversly affected their price in recent years, but we still pay good money for original examples typically found in old shops, in the backs of picture frames and behind cavity walls in old buildings.
OLD TOBACCO, CIGARETTE. FOOD AND MEDICAL TINS
Just about every product in Victorian and Edwardian shops was sold in a lithograph printed tin and because of this, millions of antique tins have survived, often costing more to post than they are worth. Very few are genuinely valuable to us, but here are some pointers as to what we would pay good money for. The printing needs to be made up of hundreds of coloured dots and/or contain more than 6 colours - again ones with pictures are best, but must have lots of writing too. We prefer early paper labelled tins for food related products, typically custard powder, cocoa and mustard. The next favouite are old tobacco tins with hinged lids with lots of pictures and elaborate writing all picked out in gold laquer - if the company is familiar, chances are it will not be of interest. Tea and biscuit tins are good too, but need to have hinged lids and be heavily branded with manufacturer's names in elaborate writing. Small sample tins are great as we can fit a lot more in a display. Condition is vital and if a tin is covered in large rust patches it is unusual for it to be worth a lot of money unless it is large and/or extremely elaborate.
OLD DUMMY DISPLAY PACKETS, BOXES AND CARTONS
Because we are trying to set up old grocer stores, corner shops and sweet shop displays we really need large display items to set the whole scene off. Not many of these giant dummy card packets, cartons and boxes have survived and are hard to get hold of in good condition. In short, the bigger the better. Also, brands such as Cadbury's Chocolate, Fry's Cocoa, Colman's Mustard, Van Houten's Cocoa, Hudson's & Sunlight soap are worth the most to us.
OLD PACKETS, BOXES AND CARTONS
As well as the larger dummy packets and shop display items, we are after smaller boxes, cartons and packets to make up window displays. Soap powder, starch, tobacco and cigarettes for unusual looking brands are best. Also products that are no longer available or ofetn used are a good indicator to age. The earlier the better with pre-war packets, printed all with labels and full of their original contents are worth most to us. Examples marked Dummy Packet or For Display Use Only are also valuable. Again, the more colours, elaborate wrinting and interesting pictures of animals, products or period (Victorian - Edwardian) dressed people are best.
OLD SWEET, CHOCOLATE DISPLAY BOXES & DUMMY BARS
Old chocolate bars, dummy bars and chocolate bar wrappers are needed in great numbers because we have a fair few chocolate display cabinets that need to be filled. Again, brands such as Cadbury's Chocolate, J. S. Fry & Sons Ltd, Five Boys, Nestle, Rowntree's are worth the most to us. The larger boxes are nice, but need to look good closed as well as open and the smaller the better. We would really like to find a chocolate bar display box still full of the original bars or dummies.
OLD GLASS SHOP DISPLAY CABINETS
One of the finest display items in a Victorian shop was the wooden display cabinet. These were used for displaying anything from biscuits to chocolate and cigarettes to tobacco and often featured acid etched By Royal Appointment coats of arms and mirrored advertising pediments - tops. These are great and we buy as many as we can get hold of. Gold leaf lettering, ornate carved pediments, cocoa pods, and goldleaf filled carved lettering are all features we look for. Basically, if its got a nice top like our Fry's cabinet below, we are interested.
OLD LABELLED GLASS BOTTLES, POTS & JARS
Like tins, there were millions of bottles in use at the turn of the century and as a result very few of them are of interest to us. The Old Bottles with labels however, look a lot better in a shop display and due to the fragile nature of the paper lables did not survive the past hundred years in any great numbers. Dating bottles is tricky, but a perfectly clear bottle with no bubbles and a mould line running through the mouth - lip of it are of little interest to us unless they have a fantasticlly elaborate and colourful label - lables. Bottles with bubbles in the glass, a greeny aqua colour and a slightly uneven - irregular lip - top or mouth are the ones we go for. Again, lots of colours (4+) and/or pictures on the labels are a must. We will buy such bottles in large quantities, but tend to avoid the plainer chemist bottles unless they are blue, green or part of a large set.
OLD GLASS SHOP SIGNS, WINDOW ADVERTS & ADVERTISING MIRRORS
We have a soft spot for advertising mirrors, the bigger the better with as much gold lettering on them and in as many different styles as possible. We pay seriously good money for Cadbury's, Rowntree's and Fry's mirrors with By Royal Appointment Crests on them and especially pictures of flowers or cocoa pods. We are also after a good Fry's Five Boys chocolates mirror too with the boy's faces - desperation, pacification, expectation, acclamation, realization it's frys on it, must be original though. Tobacco and Cigarette mirrors are OK, but only from early firms now out of business such as Hignett's. Mitchell's, Ogden's, Gallaher's, Abdulla, Muratti's. There are thousands of pub brewery beer, stout and ales mirrors. For these to be of interest, they need to have fancy gold writing, a logo or picture and be from a brewery that was not based in Burton upon Trent. All mirrors should weigh a tonne for their size as the originals were all on quarter inch plate glass. Condition is not absolutely essential. We are also after any adverts from shop windows in particular crests for chocolate manufacturers to the Queen.
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  Recent Recommendations 

23.11.09 - Just a note to say that Al from Advertising Antiques purchased the sign from us . We would also like to say that it was a pleasure doing business with him . He offered a more than fair price , paid promptly , was extremely polite , and proffessional , in all communications of the deal . We would highly reccommend Al to anybody that has any signs for sale . We will certainally contact him again for any future enamel signs we get ............. we only wish we could dig some more signs for him !

----- Original Message -----
From: D Clay
To: Advertising Antiques
Sent: Monday, April 14, 2008 3:04 PM
Subject: Re: Palethorpes

Here we go.
 
"I contacted Advertising Antiques after seeing their excellent and comprehensive website."
 
I was offered a great deal for my old Palethorpes Sausages glass sign ......... the transaction was brilliant!
 
I work in newspaper imaging and it is fascinating and inspirational to explore the Advertising Antiques galleries."
 
 
D Clay (Yorkshire Post Newspapers)

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:39:09 +0000 (GMT)

hi alexthanks 4 buy my sighs of me i was happy with the deal we did.hpoe you go on and make some think 2.
Allan,    

Sent: 21 August 2007 11:29

Subject: RE: enamel signs

Hi Al

Just a note to say thanks for helping me to move on the enamel signs that we no longer have room for. I was very happy with the deal you offered, your expertise and your prompt collection service. Wouldn't hesitate in recommending you to friends!

All the best

Andy Page

    

Subject: Globe

Sent: 20 August 2007 15:19

Hi Alex,

Thanks for the deal on the chemists globe .Always nice to deal with an honest, straight dealer.

I will contact you again if I get the bracket.

The postcard with the picture you can google with images of penygroes or Water street penygroes, Caernarfonshire.

Many thanksagain,

Merfyn.

Merfyn Jones    

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 09:31:11 +0100

Re: Old Enamel signs

Al

You wanted a piece for your website concerning our recent deal. Try this:

   "I collected a few, good quality enamel signs in the 70s. Earlier this year I moved house and wanted to sell the signs. I had no idea of their value. On the internet I found Al of Advertising Antiques. He offered my a surprisingly high (and very fair) price for my signs. He kept a few and sold on the rest. He was very happy with the deal and I was very happy too. On top of that he was a pleasure to deal with. I couldn't recommend him more highly."    

David

Hi Al
 
 
Re: Tin Signs
 
Just a short note to let you know how satisfied I was with dealing with yourself.  Communation at all times was good and payment of goods which I sold to you was excellent.  I would not hesitate in approaching you again in the future.
 
Thank you once again, it was a pleasure doing business with you.
 
Good luck in the future.
 
Kind regards
 
Katie
-----Original Message-----
From: Mary Traynor
Sent: 20 June 2007 01:53
To: mail'at'AdvertisingAntiques.co.uk
Subject: THANK YOU!

Dear Alex ... just wanted to say thank you for the fair price you quoted & subsequent prompt arrival of your cheque, in respect of the items you purchased from me.  I hope I shall be able to tempt you again with other things, when I've done some more turning out!!
 
Kind regards
 
Mary Traynor

-----Original Message-----

From: Steve V

Sent: 19 June 2007 20:25

To: mail'at'advertisingantiques.co.uk

Subject: RE: Cast Iron Railway Signs

 

Al,

Sorry - totally forgot.

Thanks for an easy, quick deal that went without a

hitch. It's nice to meet someone who is true to their

word and keeps their promises. Much better than Ebay!

Regards

Steve

        

-----Original Message-----
From: ROBERT M
Sent: 13 June 2007 17:45
To: mail  advertisingantiques.co.uk
Subject: RE: Sign

Al
 
It was a pleasure to do business with Advertising Antiques.  I was quickly offered a fair price and once the sale was agreed, I received a cheque within a short time.  Although I found Advertising Antiques on the web, it was simpler and quicker for me to sell direct rather than use an online auction.
 
Best regards
Robert

From:Marian Cope

To:"Advertising Antiques

" RE: Wincarnis Deal

From quote to sale, the whole process was totally straightforward and hassle-free...It was a pleasure doing business with you, and I can recommend you and your site wholeheartedly.

Best Wishes Marian    

-----Original Message-----

From: Jo Wood

Sent: 01 June 2007 11:38

To: mail'at'advertisingantiques.co.uk

Subject: Re: re sign and cheque

 

glad you received the sign in good order.

this has been a really good no hassle no quibble transaction with super fast

payment.

many thanks

Joanne lenfestey from Guernsey
Yestergalze
Posted:21/05/2007 16:27:27

Sincere thanks once again for another rewarding purchase from Al at 'advertisingantiques'. I am finding that the site can produce results without the uncertainties that are involved on ebay for example. Although we have never met, I am impressed with the honesty demonstrated when dealing directly with Al, regardless of how big or small the item or amount involved. The integrity shown is equalled only by his enthusiasm for the subject. I offer this post as encouragement for the continued development of the site.

-----Original Message-----
From: mikeknight
Sent: 24 March 2007 20:41
To: mailatadvertisingantiques.co.uk
Subject: satisfied customer

Dear Alex,

sorry I have taken a time to respond since our last meeting.  As promised I can confirm that I have received a payment of £100 for two antique signs and that I was very pleased with the service you provided. I will definitely use your company again in the future.

Thanks once again

Mike Knight.
 

-----Original Message-----

From: Tony Brookes

Sent: 22 March 2007 14:24

Al - this is to confirm for you that we are delighted with the courteous and

business-like manner that you discussed and completed the recent purchase

from us of 18 enamel advertising signs that had been on display at the above

pub. It is rare, in my experience, for a transaction to go through so

fairly, smoothly and amicably.

You came on the day appointed with the cash, as arranged, and removed the

signs as planned.

I thank you for your interest and hope to deal with you again in the

not-too-distant future.

Best wishes

Tony Brookes

Managing director

The Head Of Steam Ltd

 

-----Original Message-----

From: Stu

Sent: 21 March 2007 20:45

Al is a very good man to deal with, went to his house and brought a five

boy's. No hassle no worries buy with confindence. Sign was as discribed very

happy.

stu       

Crowbarcroz
Posted:15/03/2007 17:52:40  
Thanks Al for an excellent deal. No fuss transaction, looking forward to the next one.

    

----- Original Message -----
From: Carole Richards
To: Al
Sent: Saturday, February 10, 2007 12:33 PM
Subject: Re: Enamel Signs

Hope this is ok.
 
Thank you Al for your advice regarding the signs. It is reassuring as a seller to deal with someone who has a wealth of experience in this field and can respond and advise without delay. It is nice to know that the signs have a new home and can  be appreciated by a new generation.
 
Regards,
 
Carole
 
----- Original Message -----
From: "Paul Clark"
To: Advertising Antiques
Sent: Sunday, January 28, 2007 3:22 PM
Subject: Re: Signs for sale

> Hi Al,
> "We agreed on a price after I sent the photos of the signs, without any
> haggling. The transaction went very smoothly and I was paid promptly"
> Regards,
> Paul

Posted:05/02/2007 14:24:54

Hi,

Thanx for all the interest in this Sign. Its now Sold

I decided to part with it and as Al offered first. I gave him first crack at it.

A Fair offer was accepted & the money has already been re-invested in another piece.

Thanx Al

RF

        Al,

It was great to meet up with you this afternoon 27/01/07 viewing your collection and talking about the hobby & bottles was a pleasure, after 30 years of collecting I was very pleased with your offer for my sign coupled with rapid email advice this made for a great transaction. I personally wouldn't hesitate to work with you in the future.

Best regards Paul.


Paul Best

RE: poster for sale

Please do not worry about doing business with Al. I was a little concerned myself about selling on line but needn't have worried. Al was friendly, helpful and very encouraging AND he gave me a very fair price for my showcard. I would recommend Al to anyone.  Anne.

Alex
 
Thanks for meeting me halfway despite the traffic. I would thoroughly recommend you to anyone that wishes to conduct business in your specialist area. Thanks
 
Richard Kirby
 
 

Al from Ad Antiques bought my enamel signs from me for a good price and did not try to reduce the price on the day. Nice genuine guy who is passionate about what he does!

You need have no worries dealing with Al.

Jane Godfrey

    Sent: 23 January 2007 16:38
To: Advertising Antiques
Subject: Wills sign


Dear Al,

Just a note to say many thanks for the sign, it looks great and is exactly
as described/showed in the photos you sent. Thanks for the prompt service
and fair pricing! and look forward to dealing with you again in the future.

Regards

Adrian


Adrian Holbeche
Director

IE Creative Ltd

  Date: Tue, 5 Dec 2006 15:06:36 +0000

RE: PS: gallaher & co factory

Hi Al,
 
Many thanks for everything, you have been fantastic.
 
Your help in seeking out a buyer who was interested and paid good money for my antique sign was much appreciated, if i ever need any advice or valuations in this area again i will definitely be giving you a call, you certainly know what your talking about.

all the best
 
Natasha

Subject: Purchase of Sankey Chimney Pot pictorial sign

Just to say many thanks for your co-operation in agreeing the private sale
of this sign which was well described, dispatched promply & very soundly
packaged. A most unusual sign which I am well pleased with and is a good
addition to my collection. Cheers,
Steve

Stephen Boyne

Hi Al,

Thanks for tracking down the large Hudson's packet sign. I've managed to find a wall big enough to accommodate it!

Pleased doing business with you.

Regards

Steve Hudson

RE: Recent Purchases

Thanks for yet another rewarding deal. Sensible prices and easy to negotiate with. This friendly and informative source can be recommended without reserve.

Rick Edwards

Hello Al,

RE Holdfast Boots Sign.

Sign arrived today, well packed and just as described.  Thank you.  Will be happy to trade again with complete confidance.

Bob.

Sent: 02 December 2006 08:55
Subject: Re: Holdfast boots sign

It's a great addition to my quite humble collection, and at a great price too. I'll certainly be keeping an eye out for anything you have for sale in the future.

Thanks again
Sim.
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