Rare Ford Automobiles 4' Double Sided Tin Smaltz Factory Neon Sign w/ Terra Cotta Letters

Exceedingly rare Metlox DST smaltz factory neon sign with terra cotta letters and the original metal can. The sign was found by Jersey Jon of the American Pickers while filming for the show in California. On one of his days off, Jon decided to go see a friend to buy some motorcycle parts. While visiting his friend, Jon noticed the sign tucked away in one of the eaves of the shop. His friend found the sign in the 1960s on the rooftop of an old dealership while flying in a plane. The following day he went to the dealer and secured a deal on the Ford sign. The sign is truly amazing. It features brilliant two-color neon with terra cotta "Ford" letters manufactured by Metlox. The display features early paint with a great, even patina throughout. The original smaltz is only visible behind the terra cotta letters, as it is completely removed from the remainder of the sign. The terra cotta lettering has small areas of professional repair which do not distract from the striking visual the sign provides. The reverse is in similar condition as the display. The metal can has general age-related wear with non-factory holes on the top. The upper access panel has an added Metlox stamp which is present on the reverse of the terra cotta lettering. This is the only example we have seen featuring a painted surface with neon and rare terra cotta lettering. Overall, an exceedingly rare find by Jersey Jon of the American Pickers.