DENVER, PA — The annual Morphy‘s October Automobilia & Petroliana Auction has once again captivated car enthusiasts from across the globe, coinciding with the celebrated Eastern National Fall Meet of the Antique Automobile Club of America, known as “Hershey.” This year’s auction, held on October 6, showcased 652 lots of rare and vintage automobilia, amassing nearly $2.1 million in sales.
Animal mascots proved to be a major draw, with several examples landing among the top sellers. Leading the pack was a striking double-sided porcelain sign featuring the Husky Oil Co.’s energetic Arctic dog. The sign, which depicts the leaping husky against a sunlit backdrop, fetched $59,040, far exceeding its estimated value of $20,000-$40,000.
Sinclair’s iconic “Dino” the dinosaur also made a significant impact. A double-sided porcelain curb sign showing the well-detailed dinosaur with the tagline “Mellowed 100 Million Years” achieved $54,120, surpassing its $10,000-$20,000 estimate.
Another standout was the imposing grizzly bear mascot of Grizzly Gasoline. This double-sided tin sign, showcasing the bear with an open mouth and the message “Perfect Powerful Performance,” roared past its $6,000-$12,000 estimate to sell for $25,830.
A complete GMC Trucks porcelain neon sign, notable for its large dimensions and original bullnose attachment, also commanded attention, selling for $23,370 against an estimate of $6,000-$12,000.
Among the 77 gas globes and lenses featured, a 1950s lens from Salyer’s Stay-Ready Gasoline impressed buyers with its vibrant depiction of a woman flying on a duck’s back, achieving $24,600 and exceeding expectations.
Dan Morphy, president and principal auctioneer, reflected on the auction’s success: “The sale was very heavily attended, as our October sales usually are, and there was a very positive buzz in the air because everyone was excited about the nearby Hershey show, which opened two days later. There were more than 100 unique buyers, including a dozen or so new buyers at higher levels. All in all, it was a very successful sale.”
The auction’s impressive results and the enduring appeal of vintage automobilia continue to affirm its standing as a must-visit event for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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