Produced in the late 1800s, the sign (pictured above) is thought to be one of the earliest John Deere advertising signs made.
On April 28, 2025, Aumann Auctions, Inc. is set to auction what is being called the GOAT (greatest of all time) John Deere sign of all time.
This recently discovered John Deere Gilpin Plow Sign will be one of the featured highlights of the 2025 Pre-30 Sign & More Auction #1. See www.aumannvintagepower.com/auction/2025-pre-30-sign--more-collection-1-74728/details.
This rare, chromolithographed metal sign is believed to be one of the first distributed by John Deere (Deere & Company).
Discovered in a barn in Polson, Montana, it measures 20" x 28" and was produced in the 1800s by the Wells & Hope Company, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who were considered specialists in the production of chromo-litho iron show cards. The use of the phrase "iron show cards" in place of "sign" underscores just how early this piece is. Wells & Hope was well-respected for producing vibrant, high-quality advertising materials, primarily for breweries.
Along with its historical significance and unparalleled rarity, what makes this sign truly exceptional are its striking graphics. The image of the Gilpin Plow has been widely used by John Deere over the years, but an original sign featuring this design had never surfaced until now.
A similar sign exists in the John Deere corporate collection, but it depicts a cultivator rather than the Gilpin Plow, making this piece potentially one-of-a-kind.
The sign retains its brilliant colors and bold design, with only minor aging-related wear, including rust discoloration along the edges and a dozen BB shot dings, likely from years past.
Remnants of an original Deere & Co. label remain on the back, instructing merchants to display it in a "conspicuous place." This predates the establishment of traditional John Deere dealerships, suggesting that such signs were sent to general mercantile stores where customers could order farm implements.
"This is undoubtedly one of the most important John Deere signs ever to reach the auction block," commented Roger Johnson, Auction Specialist with Aumann Auctions. "Collectors recognize the significance of this find, and we anticipate substantial interest from both agricultural history enthusiasts and serious advertising collectors."
Collectors and John Deere enthusiasts will have the opportunity to do online bidding on this museum-worthy piece at the 2025 Pre-30 Sign & More Auction #1, taking place on April 28, beginning at 6 PM CST from Nokomis, Illinois.
Aumann Auctions is a nationally recognized leader in antique tractors, automobilia, and vintage advertising auctions. More on the company is available at www.aumannauction.com.