The old gas pump globe is an iconic piece of American culture that is highly sought after by collectors. They are a great way to add vintage flair and nostalgia to any home or collection. These globes were used to identify the brand of gasoline being sold at a gas station and could be lit up at night to attract passing motorists. They are also a popular item to collect for their beauty and ephemera value.
The first step to collecting a gas pump globe is to learn as much about them as possible. There are plenty of resources on the internet to help you get started, but if possible, it is best to learn directly from an experienced collector who has a sizable collection and can teach you everything you need to know about them.
One of the first things to look for when deciding if a globe is original is the mounting hardware. If it has a metal collar around the base and a screw on the back, it is likely an original. If it has a rubber or plastic collar and a plug on the back, it is most likely newer.
Another factor to consider when determining the age of a globe is whether it was fired/baked, etched or cast. Etched and baked ones are the oldest and one of the most valuable. A bakers dozen of different body styles exist too – rounded wide, narrow or flat sided. Most stand about 16.5″ tall unless they have a collar base.
Different Gill ripple colors are also sought after and can bring large prices for the right one. Green is the hardest to find but will still bring high prices. Other colors are a little easier to come across and still bring good money.
After World War II, pumps began getting smaller and it became rare to have a globe on top of the pump. Some companies did use them though such as Sunoco into the 1950s.
Some one piece globes have writing etched on them such as Texaco Fire Hats, Standard Crowns or City Service clovers. These can be hard to determine if they are real or not since the value of a painted one depends on how well the paint has worn over the years.
If a metal body globe has a painted propeller graphic on it, it is most likely a rare example of one of the few original Texaco Aviation Globes to ever be made. These are highly desirable by many collectors as they show raised lettering and a beautiful painted propeller. Value – $10,000+ when complete.