Long before the Exxon name appeared on modern gas stations, Humble Oil & Refining Company was building one of the most important petroleum operations in the United States.
For collectors of petroliana and vintage advertising, Humble Oil represents more than a regional fuel brand — it represents the Texas backbone of what would become Exxon.
Today, authentic Humble Oil porcelain enamel signs are among the most desirable pieces in early American oil advertising.
This guide explains the full history, brand evolution, sign types, collectability, and how to identify genuine examples.
Humble Oil & Refining Company was founded in 1911 in Humble, Texas — the same year the Standard Oil monopoly was broken up by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Unlike the former Standard Oil companies that emerged from the breakup, Humble was originally independent. It grew rapidly due to Texas oil discoveries and strong refining capabilities. By the 1920s and 1930s, Humble was one of the dominant oil producers in the Southwest.
Key facts:
In 1919, Standard Oil of New Jersey (later known as Esso and eventually Exxon) acquired a controlling interest in Humble Oil.
Over time, Humble became the primary refining and marketing arm for Standard Oil of New Jersey in Texas.
👉🏼 Standard Oil Vintage Gas Station Signs: Collecting & Identifying Authentic Originals
For decades:
In 1973, the Humble brand name was officially retired. All stations were rebranded as Exxon.
This transition is critical for collectors. It explains why:
Humble stations in the 1920s–1950s followed the clean architectural style typical of early oil companies:
Brand colors varied over time but often included red, white, and blue combinations that later influenced Esso branding.
Unlike later Exxon signage, early Humble advertising was more restrained and regionally focused.
Collectors typically encounter the following Humble Oil sign categories:
Authentic porcelain enamel signs will feature; Heavy steel base, layered kiln-fired enamel. Often large double-sided porcelain signs. These are the most valuable.
Mounted perpendicular to buildings. Strong collector appeal due to display versatility.
Smaller pieces used directly on fuel pumps or oil dispensers.
Less valuable than porcelain but historically important.
👉🏼 Tin Litho vs Porcelain Enamel: What’s the Difference (Why Does It Matter)
Because Humble branding ended in 1973, authentic porcelain examples date primarily from the 1920s–1960s.
Yes — especially original porcelain examples in strong condition or large glass neon porcelain panels like the Humble Oil Aviation wide porcelain panel.
Value depends on:
Auction ranges (general guidance):
Condition dramatically impacts price. Edge chipping and porcelain loss reduce value significantly.
Several reasons:
Because of this limited production and brand retirement, original Humble signs are less common than Esso or Exxon examples.
👉🏼 How Porcelain Signs Are Made
Authentication is critical. The market contains modern reproductions and decorative pieces.
Here is what experienced collectors examine:
Original porcelain signs were made on heavy-gauge steel. Thin or lightweight pieces are suspect.
True porcelain enamel has depth and gloss from kiln-fired glass layers. It should not feel like paint.
Vintage porcelain typically shows:
Modern reproductions often lack depth.
Authentic aging appears:
Artificial distressing often looks uniform and forced.
Original holes were punched before firing, and porcelain typically pools slightly at the edges.
If the hole looks drilled through finished enamel, it is likely not original.
Yes. From high quality, authentic reproductions made step-by-step like the vintage original gas station signs and memorabilia to an overflowing amount of cheap, flimsy tin, junky aluminum, sticker designs, acrylic, plastic.
No matter the brand, era, or type of vintage Roadside Americana; both low quality and premium quality replicas are being sold today. In fact, Porcelain Advertising was started after witnessing firsthand the antique & vintage collectible market become overrun with companies who just want to slap on a sticker and make a quick buck.
Whether designing your dream garage or simply looking for authentic vintage signs to recreate the experience a majority of Americans remember feeling when pulling in to their favorite gas station and filling station starting as early as the 1920’s and 1930’s.
👉🏼 Esso Oil Drop Couple: Legendary Gas Station Mascots & Iconic Advertising Signs
Patriots and those who remember a time not too long gone will instantly understand why we want to preserve and celebrate our American heritage.
We intend to honor our ancestors and bring back what, “American Made Quality” used to mean.
Reproductions exist because:
High-quality reproductions may still use heavy steel and porcelain enamel, but they are modern productions and should never be misrepresented as original.
Clear disclosure is essential in any transaction.
Humble represents:
For collectors wanting to figure out how to design a dream vintage car garage or building mid-century themed spaces, Humble signage connects directly to the roots of American petroleum history.
It marks the era before global branding consolidation — when regional names still mattered.
Humble Oil was known for oil production and refining in Texas and later became the refining and marketing arm of Standard Oil of New Jersey.
Yes. Humble eventually became Exxon after a 1973 rebranding.
Authentic porcelain signs are relatively rare due to regional distribution and rebranding removal.
Original porcelain signs can range from under $1,000 for small pieces to over $10,000 for large double-sided examples.
Look for heavy steel backing, kiln-fired enamel depth, layered gloss, authentic edge wear, and proper punched mounting holes.
The Humble brand was retired in 1973 and replaced with Exxon.
Humble Oil signs represent a transitional chapter in American petroleum history — the bridge between Standard Oil’s breakup and Exxon’s rise as a global corporation.
Because the brand name no longer exists, its signage captures a closed chapter in industrial history. That finality increases both nostalgic appeal and Collectability.
For serious collectors, Humble Oil porcelain signage is not just decorative. It is a physical artifact of the early Texas oil boom and the foundation of modern Exxon.
👉🏼 The Legendary Esso Gasoline Campaign: Put a Tiger in Your Tank
👉🏼 Remember the Mobil Pegasus? America’s Most Iconic Flying Red Horse
👉🏼 UL Listed Power Supply & Neon Electrical Standards
👉🏼 USPTO Patent Pending: Neon Porcelain Can Design with Anti Warp Mounting
👉🏼 Licensing, Trademarks, & Good Faith Brand Policy
There’s a reason gas pump globes still stop people in their tracks....
If you love old gas & oil advertising, collect vintage gas pump...
Not all neon signs are created equal—and if you're here, you already...
Step back into the golden age of diners, candy counters, and soda...
We keep things simple and honest—just like the signs we make. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about our materials, process, shipping, returns, and what makes our porcelain signs different from the rest. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, reach out—we’re always happy to help.
Our signs are crafted using a 20-step vintage finishing technique that ensures authenticity and unmatched quality. Each piece is handmade to replicate the look and feel of original vintage porcelain signs, setting us apart from cheaper, mass-produced reproductions.
No, our signs are high-quality reproductions. We focus on recreating classic designs with the same materials and craftsmanship used in the originals. However, we do not sell them as antiques, and we ask our customers to avoid reselling them as originals.
We use heavy-gauge steel and baked enamel porcelain coatings, just like the original manufacturing methods. This process ensures durability, vibrant colors, and a timeless appearance.
Absolutely not. While our signs are incredibly authentic in appearance, they are modern reproductions. Misrepresenting them as originals violates our values and transparency as a company.
Yes, we do offer custom designs, and you will have the exclusive rights to your design. Please inquire via email at support@porcelainadvertising.com for more information.
Shipping is Free.
We carefully package each sign to prevent damage during transit. Shipping is handled through trusted carriers, and tracking information is provided once your order ships.
Returns are FREE and accepted for any reason within 30 days for either a refund of the purchase price or an exchange if available. We even cover return shipping costs.
Simply wipe your sign with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to protect the enamel finish.
Yes, we are able to offer direct wholesale pricing and dropshipping capabilities. Please contact us via email at support@porcelainadvertising.com for more information.
Feel free to reach out to us via email at support@porcelainadvertising.com or use our Contact Us page for inquiries. We’re here to help!
