The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of Vintage Neon Signs

For nearly a century, neon signs have defined the American streetscape, glowing above diners, motels, and gas stations across the country. They were once the pinnacle of eye-catching advertising, a symbol of craftsmanship and design. Then, almost overnight, they began to disappear—replaced by cheaper, easier-to-maintain alternatives.

But today, authentic neon is making a comeback. Whether it’s collectors hunting down original signs, businesses restoring classic displays, or artisans keeping the craft alive, neon’s warm glow refuses to fade.

The Rise: How Neon Took Over America

Neon lighting was introduced in the early 1900s, but it wasn’t until the 1920s and 1930s that it truly took off. Business owners quickly realized that neon signs were impossible to ignore, glowing in brilliant reds, blues, and greens. Gas stations, motels, theaters, and diners all embraced neon, making it the dominant form of advertising from the 1930s through the 1960s.

This was the golden age of neon—when glowing signs lined Route 66, illuminated Las Vegas, and became cultural icons. The craftsmanship behind these signs was remarkable, requiring skilled artisans to hand-bend glass tubes, fill them with gas, and wire them into electric works of art.

The Fall: Why Neon Signs Started Disappearing

By the 1970s and 1980s, neon was in decline. Several factors led to its downfall:

• Cost & Maintenance – Neon signs required constant upkeep, with delicate glass tubes that could break and transformers that needed replacing.
• The Rise of Plastic & LED – Businesses looking for cheaper alternatives switched to plastic backlit signs and, later, LED displays, which were brighter, required less maintenance, and used less energy.
• Changing Aesthetics – By the late 20th century, neon was seen as outdated. Cities cracked down on “visual clutter,” leading to regulations that restricted neon signage.

As a result, many once-glowing streets turned dark, and thousands of vintage neon signs were either scrapped or left to decay.

The Comeback: Why Vintage Neon is Hot Again

Despite its decline, vintage neon is experiencing a resurgence. Collectors, nostalgia seekers, and business owners are rediscovering the charm of real neon. Here’s why:

• Nostalgia & Americana – For many, neon signs represent a lost era of craftsmanship and style. Seeing a classic neon sign instantly brings back memories of road trips, drive-ins, and the golden age of advertising.
• Authenticity & Craftsmanship – Unlike mass-produced LED signs, vintage neon signs were handcrafted, making each one a work of art. The warm glow of real neon simply can’t be replicated.
• Preservation Efforts – Organizations and enthusiasts are working to restore and protect historic neon signs, recognizing their cultural value.
• Aesthetic & Ambiance – Whether in homes, garages, or businesses, real neon signs create a vibe that LEDs can’t match. The soft, organic glow of true neon feels more alive than the harsh, uniform light of modern alternatives.

Finding or Restoring Vintage Neon

With original neon signs becoming rarer, collectors have to move fast when they find a good piece. If you’re looking for vintage neon, here are a few tips:

• Check Condition – A working original is worth significantly more than a sign that’s been repainted or heavily modified.
• Look for Classic Brands – Neon signs from gas stations, automotive brands, and soda companies (like Texaco, Ford, and Coca-Cola) are among the most collectible.
• Consider Restoration – While original condition is best, a well-restored sign with period-correct materials can still hold great value.

The Next Best Thing: High-Quality Reproductions

Because vintage neon signs are becoming harder to find, high-quality reproductions are an excellent alternative. Just like with porcelain signs, the key is craftsmanship—true neon should be made with real glass tubes, not LED imposters. A properly made reproduction captures the same magic as the originals, keeping the art of neon alive.

The Glow Never Dies

Neon may have faded from mainstream advertising, but its legacy remains. The signs that once lit up America’s streets are now prized collectibles, symbols of an era when craftsmanship and design went hand in hand. Whether you’re restoring an original or looking for a true-to-original reproduction, one thing is certain: neon isn’t just a piece of the past—it’s a glowing reminder that great craftsmanship never goes out of style.

At Porcelain Advertising, we share your passion for authenticity. If you're looking for real neon—not LED knockoffs—check out our selection. Because some things were just made better back then.