I have been following a "Exide" 6 volt battery die-cut painted metal sign on eBay (item# 260531791603)that recently closed. I have the 12 volt version and wanted to have the pair for my collection. I sent the seller this message before the auction ended: I am interested in your sign, but I can't see a manufactures name on the piece. I have the 12-volt version (almost identical) and on the inside flange (in red letters) it says "Stout Sign Co St Louis, Mo." with the numbers "EAF-1772A 10-60." Do you know if your sign is original or reproduction?
His reply was: No mark on this one.... I have never seen a reproduction of this sign and I believe that if it was a reproduction, they could have certainly put a name and number on it...I have no reason at all to believe this is anything other than an old sign in very nice condition, but if you are concerned, don't bid and cause us both a problem."
Previous to my question about the item, 2 other questions came through and he posted both of them for potential buyers to see.
One stangely enough was a question wanting to know if he would ship the item to "Singapore" if this gentleman won the item.
He did not post my question about the manufacture I.D. at all!
I did call a gentleman that owned one of the 6 volt "Exide" signs, but it was packed away where he couldn't get to it to verify the "Stout Sign Co." name was on the piece. He did say that the 6 volt sign was about 3" longer and 3" wider that the 12 volt "Exide" sign that he owned. He advertised the measurements on eBay the same size of the 12 volt. Does anyone know if this is correct?
This sign sold for an amazing $985.50!! (about a $450.00 sign)
I guess where I'm going with this is, ask all the questions you can before you purchase an item in person or over the internet and be aware of any red flags. I can't say for sure if the item was original or reproduction, but I did not bid.
Thanks,
Freddie