Led by an array of rare advertising signs, gas pumps, globes and early service station and motoring accessories, Morphy Auctions July 19 and 20 Automobilia and Petroliana Auction attracted bidders from coast to coast and cruised to a grand total of $2.3 million, inclusive of buyers premium. The 1,000-lot sale featured quality consignments from a number of advanced collections, offering bidders a chance to buy elusive pieces at high condition levels. A fresh-to-the-market Sinclair Aircraft double-sided porcelain service station sign with an early airplane graphic landed in the auctions top slot. Measuring 48 inches in diameter, the coveted sign was pursued by not only petroliana collectors but also aviation enthusiasts. Propelled by multiple bidders, it rose to a lofty altitude, settling comfortably within its estimate range at $62,400. Collectors will pay a premium to acquire gasoline signs that are known to be rare, but even more so if they include attractive images of vehicles. A ca. 1940s Paragon Gasolene double-sided porcelain sign with a tanker trunk graphic, its sides graded 8.0 and 7.9, respectively, sold for $27,600 against an estimate of $8,000-$16,000. A scarce Sunset Gasoline & Rainbow Motor Oil double-sided porcelain service station sign depicting a brilliant sunset flanked by images of a speeding car and airplane sold near the top of its estimate range for $24,000. Neon car dealership signs, especially those in nice original condition, are always in demand as well. The auction featured an outstanding dual-brand Cadillac and Oldsmobile die-cut porcelain neon sign with its correct bullnose attachment. A major statement piece measuring 82-by-108 inches and graded 8.75+ condition, it sold above high estimate for $25,200. A gleaming lineup of more than 160 gas pump globes crossed the auction block, with many tempting rarities in the mix. A complete 15-inch-diameter Jumbo Gas Power To Pass gas pump globe was made in the 1930s and retained its original high-profile metal body. One of few known examples, its main attraction was its outstanding central graphic of a lumbering elephant. Graded 8.5 out of 10 and estimated at $7,000-$14,000, the globe had many bidders chasing it until its run concluded at $20,910. What would an automobilia or petroliana collection be without an antique gas pump? A ca. 1920s Wayne Roman column 10-gallon visible gas pump in 8.0 condition sold above high estimate for $28,800, while a Wayne Model #50 showcase gas pump restored in royal blue and white Pure Gasoline livery earned $26,400 against an estimate of $10,000-$15,000. Soda pop advertising was an added attraction of the two-day sale. The offerings were led by an exceedingly rare 14-inch Pepsi-Cola reverse-painted, illuminating glass bullet sign with a bottle graphic. Produced in the 1940s and retaining its original wood base and metal can, the condition 9.25 sign surpassed its high estimate to command an effervescent $21,420. All prices quoted in this report are inclusive of buyers premium. For more information, call toll-free 877-968-8880 or email info@morphyauctions.com. All images courtesy of Morphy Auctions.