Tin beer signs are a humorous way to advertise beer brands.
Just about every bar has a tin beer sign hanging up on the wall. They add a bit of whimsy and atmosphere to the establishment. While meant to be mostly for advertising by the Beer companies, tin beer signs have becoming a hot collectible for beer enthusiasts all over.
Tin Beer Signs
A Glimpse into Yesterday
Indicative of the "good old days" when people still had fun and enjoyed the company of others, tin beer signs are not only excellent pieces of historical art, but also a sign of the progression of society throughout the years. Tin beer signs offer a pleasant look back throughout history, often reminding people of what was considered a more joyous time. Tin signs are used often throughout bars, inns, and taverns, as well as homes and restaurants. These old-fashioned signs create the look and feel of the cozier and calmer days of old, when it seemed to be more relaxed and people still waved and smiled at each other.
Tin beer signs were first created as a marketing strategy. Metal beer signs provide for affordable and wide spread marketing. They have been used to promote beer companies and products as well as taverns and bars or special events. Companies can use tin signs to promote specials or deals on certain beverages or advertise special parties or themed events like $1 draft nights or St. Patrick's Day parties.
Tin beer signs are also considered a respectable collectible item. Many museums and collectors are willing to pay top dollar to purchase the necessary beer sign to either complete a current or collection or provide a more realistic feel to a display about certain time eras. Collectible tin beer signs have been found to cost several hundreds and thousands of dollars depending upon the theme, product, or age of the piece. Tin signs are similarly a very good investment that can help provide extra money, as many museums and collectors look to increase the amount of pieces in a display.
Now days, collectors and historical societies are providing access to these historic treasures as a way to preserve what life and style was many years ago. Through metal beer signs, the progression of society can be seen, as movements both political and humorous can be found. Tin beer signs stand for a time long ago when the world seemed to function as it should and children were safe to play outdoors, schools were actually useful, and people still cared for their fellow man. Bars and restaurants centered around old-time themes often use metal signs.
In addition to marketing though, neon bar signs add a touch of personality to the establishment. Patrons often find themselves relaxed enough by the comical or whimsical styled beer sign to sit back and enjoy a few drinks. A relaxed and happy establishment can bring in an endless amount of repeat business by providing a safe and comfortable environment for patrons to come, relax, and truly enjoy themselves.
If original antique tin signs are a little beyond the budget, there are several companies that make replicas for half the price of the originals. Companies specializing in these timeless recreations can be found across the internet. Faux antique tin beer signs can also be purchased for minimal cost as well.
Tin beer signs provide a pleasant and comfortable feeling to any establishment. Still considered useful promotional items, these tin bar signs will stand the test of time and patrons are more apt to seeing several new or antique tin beer signs hanging on the walls of their favorite place.
Should beer signs be straight to the point?
Or is it ok to add a little humor?
There are two types of beer signs: ones that feature a brand name with a logo or some picture, and ones that feature a funny joke relating to beer. I'm just curious as to which type the average beer drinker thinks is a more effective form of advertising.
Books about Beer Memorabilia
Must haves for any collector.
The World of Beer Memorabilia: Identification & Value Guide
This beautiful, 184 page deluxe, laminated cover hardbound volume will be enjoyed by every beer memorabilia collector. It contains 184 pages, 8 1/2 x 11", with more than 200 full color, gorgeous, sharp photos, many full page in size. It has '97 pricing. It is loaded with information on this collectable, with very complete item descriptions. Major topics range from early history, brewery company art, signs, trays, brewery beauties, statues, reverse glass, mugs, cans and more. It does not include every item available, but a good representative of each category. A beautiful deluxe library volume.
Amazon Price: (as of 10/13/2008)
List Price: $24.95
Used Price: $2.65
Martyn Cornell's Beer Memorabilia: Collecting from the Best in the World
From popular and familiar items such as cans and bottles through to rarer collectibles such as font tops and pump clips, Beer Memorabilia is a celebration of the variety that breweriana provides. Includes How to find what you want, 300 color photos, & tips on storage and display. An invaluable companion to the serious collector.
Amazon Price: (as of 10/13/2008)
List Price:
Used Price:
Beer Advertising Memorabilia
Amazon Price: $27.50 (as of 10/13/2008)
List Price: $27.50
Used Price: $28.22
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What do you have to say about tin beer signs.
Just want to hear what you think about this lens, and if you collect tin beer signs, please post some pictures of them.
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bwcabound
Good post I have always liked looking at beer signs. I am from the Wisconsin and Chicago area and on every corner there use to be beer signs. Posted September 08, 2008 |
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mulberry
You know these signs are valuable because you see reproductions being sold in retail stores...I prefer the authentic signs! Nice lens. Posted April 17, 2008 |
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Susan52
I don't care for beer, but I love tin signs! Nice job on the lens! Posted April 05, 2008 |

















