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How to Tell If a Sign Is Old

Hanging a few vintage signs around your home is a colorful and interesting way to add a bit of character to a room. Vintage signs are sometimes more than 100 years old, and they all have a story to tell. Old signs make excellent conversation pieces as you explain their history to your guests. Unfortunately, a sign might look old but might not be. Before buying one, check it carefully to ensure that it isn't a replica or a fake.

Instructions

- 1
  Look at the rusting on the sign. A sign that is rusted all over generally is a true vintage sign. Some companies use acid to rust the edges of the sign, leaving the main parts untouched. If the rust interferes with your ability to read to sign, it is most likely old.
- 2
  Know the time period and conditions when the sign was supposedly made. For instance, businesses would not be inclined to stamp the price of an item in a porcelain sign, since prices on items change frequently and porcelain signs were expensive to replace. Additionally, cast iron signs were not likely used in the early 20th century. If you see such a sign advertised as being from that time period, it is likely a reproduction or fake. Many old signs were actually made of steel, a cheaper metal at the time.
- 3
  Look for details on the sign such as a phone number or address. These signs are probably true vintage signs. Reproduction signs are not likely to have personal details such as these, although some may. So this alone is not a measure of authenticity.
- 4
  Look at the lettering if a sign is said to be vintage and hand-painted. Even the most talented painter cannot paint every letter on a sign the same or perfectly. If the letters look perfect, the sign's print was probably created by a computer. If the letters slow slight variations, the sign is old. Paintbrush strokes also help prove the sign's age.

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