The gas pump globe is an iconic piece of petroliana that is highly coveted by collectors and valued as the crowning jewel in many service station collectible sets. However, there are a few factors that should be kept in mind by potential buyers to ensure they are getting the most out of their investment.

First of all, the condition of a vintage gas globe is critical to its value. Damaged glass and cranks will greatly reduce the overall value of a globe, even if it is in excellent shape otherwise. Also, the style of a globe is important to its desirability. Some of the most valuable ones are those produced by well known companies such as Sinclair, Texaco, and Atlantic. However, some of the rarest are those produced by smaller independent brands that were bought out by larger companies. These often have beautiful graphic lenses and a more dynamic appearance than a more common lens.

Another thing to consider is the mounting hardware that was used to attach a gas globe to a pump. Authentic ones will have brass or cast iron mounting rings, while newer versions may use plastic or other materials. It is also important to look at the thickness of the glass, as thicker glass is usually older.

A final consideration when evaluating a gas pump globe is to check for a date of manufacture on the bottom. A globe that is labeled “1912” or older is more likely to be genuine, while those labeled as “1970” or later are not. Similarly, one with the word “Gasolene” in tall narrow blue letters is typically older and more valuable than those without.

In addition to the dates of manufacture, a potential buyer should also be sure to examine the gas globe for signs that it has been painted or restored at some point in its life. Repainting a gas globe can significantly diminish its value, especially for those with rarer colors such as gold or red.

Gas globes were once a very important part of service station decor, serving as beacons in the dark for tired drivers and hungry engines. With the advent of the automotive revolution and better lighting systems, they eventually fell out of favor as stations opted for more modern, boxy aesthetics. However, they remain an enduring icon of American culture and a fascinating piece of American ephemera that is worth revisiting from time to time.

Scott Benjamin has been collecting gas pump globes for over forty years and is a founding partner in Petroleum Collectibles Monthly magazine. He is also the author of fifteen books on petroleum collectibles including two volumes on gas pump globes. Visit his website to view all of his available inventory.