If there are only 4 or 5 known, then it sounds like they could be samples.

Now if that is the case I am wondering if they perhaps did a batch of samples with the darker blue?..say maybe the light blue was not accepted??

Also as far as blank size these were the days before plasma and laser cutters and they were likely punched. This makes me think there is a slight chance of a size close to what they wanted being used (due to inventory at hand) rather than make new blanks for a trial run.

Just a few thoughts for what it is worth.

If you have chipped one look carefully at the edge it should show evidence of being punched if it is 25 years old or more. If it looks plasma cut, take off running!!..

Just look what showed up on feebay....looks like somebody was reading this thread.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Golden-West-Porcelai...1QQcmdZViewItem

Member here!

Hi, I'm Greg Greenberg also known as bustermonty on ebay. Buster and Monty are my 2 labs who inspired my screen name. I bought
my first sign in Sept 02 when I went to get a Buick sign to go with my Buick GS. I now have almost 250 signs and no GS. Always looking for unique and graphic signs

Why would you want to keep it. Your first loss is your best loss

Edit to remove objectionable word

[This message has been edited by Oldgas (edited 02-09-2006).]

Would the REAL Bustermonty please step forward! Am I missing something here? Which one of yall is Bustermonty on ebay?

Edit to remove reference to another post's objectionable word

[This message has been edited by Oldgas (edited 02-09-2006).]

Sorry for the confusion. I posted. Member Here. Meaning that he is a member here. Larry

Don't take it personaly.
If you want to call 800 862 6912 I'll be glad to stand up.

[This message has been edited by Oldgas (edited 02-09-2006).]

Dumb ole hillbilly here from Tennessee. Still confused. Is st.rod from Colorodo bustermonty on ebay or is bustermonty here also bustermonty on ebay?

Thats okay Hill Billy. I'm st.rod (Larry) Bustermonte is bustermonte (Greg) It don't men nuttin' any who

st.rod is Larry from Colorado. Bustermonty is Bustermonty from ebay and here but not really because Buster and Monty are 2 labs and that leaves this guy Greg Greenburg. I think thats our guy. The one with the sign. Really.

Thanks Rarin' to Go! I was startin' to get confused myself. LMFAO Larry

Hi, This is the real bustermonty on this sight and ebay or Greg. Not bustermonte that is someone else on ebay. Just trying to keep it straight.

Thanks guys it is clear as mud now. LOL. Have a good one and good luck on the plate.

Yes, I bought Bustermonty's Golden West sign on eBay. And yes, it has a gray back. And no, I don't care because collectors are still buying the signs regardless of the variety of colors and backs. Still, nobody knows for sure whether all, some or none of the Golden West signs are REAL!!

I bring this up again because Aumann Auction's has another Golden West sign in the March 3 Peotone Auction (item #103). Now, Aumann's has sold at least five Golden West signs in the last three years for prices ranging from $990 to $2,750. Only one of these signs was the “baby blue” version. Aumann’s has never qualified any of these signs with a comment like “age unknown”, “possible reproduction”, etc. As experienced auctioneers, it's a normal fiduciary responsibility to warn bidders if there is any doubt about authenticity. Since they haven’t qualified any of these Golden West sign auctions to date, that must mean that no “expert” in the hobby has been able to determine with any conviction which of these signs may be reproductions.

Keep in mind, this controversy on the signs has been around a long time. I acquired a Golden West sign when I first started collecting ten years ago and immediately heard all the “expert” opinions about the repops. However, the signs continue to sell for higher and higher prices at auctions. At the same time, experienced and “deep pocket” collectors have been aware of the controversy and the “opinions”. The conclusion must be that collectors just don’t care!! All the signs are well done with great graphics and heavy porcelain. Even if you accept that some of the signs may be repops, someone mentioned maybe 25 – 50 were made? That still makes any of the signs “rare” indeed.

Finally, if any collector out there has a 10 inch Golden West sign they don’t trust and want to unload, I’ll buy it for $500. And that’s a standing offer.

That’s my 2c.

Paul

Recently found this light blue version. Back is yellow.

[img]https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KIovHOeh9WTaEeZKsyDH2I-X22k2Os5z/view?usp=drivesdk[/img]