The 5 Most Iconic Neon Signs in American History (And Why Collectors Still Hunt Them Today)
The 5 Most Iconic Neon Signs in American History
Why collectors still chase them—and what they meant to the American roadside
Before LED took over, neon signs were the glowing heart of American advertising. They didn’t just promote a brand—they lit the night with bold color and craftsmanship. These signs were built to last, made from handblown glass, porcelain enamel, and steel. Today, the rare survivors are more than relics—they’re prized trophies of Americana.
Here are the five neon signs that define the golden age:
1. M![]()
obilgas Pegasus
The Winged Horse That Ruled the Skies (and Highways)
No sign captures the romance of the open road like the Mobilgas Pegasus. First introduced by Socony-Vacuum in the 1930s, the red flying horse became a beacon of speed and power. These signs usually featured porcelain faces with glowing red neon outlines, mounted on service stations across America.
Collector Note: Originals with both sides intact and working neon can fetch $20,000–$40,000+.
2. Texaco Star
The Star That Never Went Out
Texaco’s glowing red star with a green “T” in the center is among the most recognized logos in American history. The vintage Texaco neon added a warm, glowing halo to stations coast to coast—often paired with large pole signs that guided travelers like a lighthouse in the night.
Collector Note: Original neon Texaco signs, especially large porcelain-faced examples, are incredibly rare and often sell for $10,000–$25,000.
3. Chevrolet OK Used Cars
A Neon Stamp of Trust and Nostalgia
In the 1950s and ’60s, Chevrolet dealerships were flooded with these signs. The blue and yellow round “OK” sign in neon didn’t just advertise used cars—it symbolized an era when buying used was a proud decision. These signs hung in showrooms and above garages, their glowing colors now synonymous with classic car culture.
Collector Note: Originals with working neon, especially those double-sided, sell for $8,000–$15,000.
4. Coca-Cola Script
America’s Favorite Drink in Glowing Glass
Coca-Cola was one of the earliest adopters of neon signage. Whether mounted inside diners or hanging in window displays, the red script Coca-Cola neon is etched into memory. They blended function and form—serving as art, light, and advertising in one.
Collector Note: Due to their age and fragility, early Coca-Cola neons are extremely scarce, often selling for $5,000–$20,000 depending on condition and style.
5. Sinclair Dino
The Friendly Dinosaur That Lit the Roadside
Sinclair’s green dinosaur is one of the most lovable icons in American advertising. Neon versions brought the prehistoric mascot to life—often curved to match the shape of its back or tail. These signs feel both futuristic and fossilized, which is exactly what makes them unforgettable.
Collector Note: Working porcelain neon Dino signs are among the rarest and most cherished, with values around $10,000–$25,000.
Why They Still Matter
What unites all five of these neon legends?
- True craftsmanship – real porcelain enamel, glass, and steel.
- Emotional nostalgia – they bring back memories of road trips, family cars, or a dad’s old garage.
- Rarity – most were scrapped, shattered, or replaced. The few survivors glow brighter than ever.
If you’re lucky enough to own one—or looking to add a faithful reproduction to your collection—these signs aren’t just décor. They’re part of the story of America.
Want your own piece of neon history?
At Porcelain Advertising, we create real neon signs made the way they used to be—porcelain enamel faces, handblown glass, and vintage style that doesn’t just copy the look. It is the look.
