Morphy Auctions Thrives with a $1.6 Million Automobilia and Petroliana Auction

On July 15-16, Morphy Auctions held a remarkable auction dedicated to automobilia, petroliana, and soda advertising, which concluded with a staggering total of $1.6 million in sales. This event attracted collectors from all over, eager to secure pieces of motoring heritage and nostalgic signage.

Among the highlights, a pristine 1940s Harbor Petroleum Products porcelain sign featuring seaplane graphics soared to a remarkable $54,120. This sign, measuring 39 inches by 35 inches, was in excellent condition, graded at 9.0 by the Antique Advertising Association, showcasing its vibrant colors and glossy finish. This piece is a significant testament to California's early petroleum industry history.

Another standout item was the legendary 1939 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead motorcycle, which fetched $40,590. Renowned for pioneering Harley's overhead valve V-twin technology, this model is particularly coveted by collectors. Its 61 cubic inch (1000cc) engine had the capability of reaching speeds up to 100 mph, making it a prized possession for motorcycle enthusiasts. Although the bike had undergone some restoration, it retained much of its original charm, contributing to its impressive sale price.

The auction also featured a stunning 1930s Ford double-sided porcelain neon sign, which brought in $31,200. Measuring 101 inches wide, this sign stood out not just for its size but also for its radiant colors and overall glossy appearance, earning it a strong grading of 8.75+. This sign’s striking neon lighting ability captivated bidders, adding to its desirability.

While clean, pristine pieces garnered high prices, a circa-1930s Richlube Motor Oil double-sided porcelain sign, which had seen better days with heavy staining and chipping, surprisingly sold for $23,370. Initially estimated at just $3,000 to $6,000, its final price reflects the willingness of collectors to embrace even the more imperfect items within this nostalgic genre.

The auction also featured impressive results for more pieces from the 1950s, including a Flying A Gasoline sign that nearly doubled its high estimate, selling for $22,755. Other notable sales included a 1930s aero-type sign from Flying A that earned $14,760 and a circa-1930s Super Shell Gasoline pump-plate sign that reached $22,200, exceeding expectations.

This auction event, hosted at Morphy's flagship gallery in Pennsylvania, saw high competition among bidders both in-person and online, showcasing the continued interest in automobilia and petroliana collectibles. The number of lots offered—nearly 1,300—ensured a wide selection to choose from, capturing the imagination of both serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike.

For those considering consigning items to future auctions or learning more about Morphy's offerings, Dan Morphy can be contacted directly via email or through the company’s website for details and confidential consultations.

Overall, Morphy Auctions displayed its strong reputation in the industry with this successful event, proving that the allure of historical memorabilia continues to thrive in today’s market.