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"Coca-Cola" and "Coke" are among the most recognized brands in the world, in no small part due to the use of signs as part of their advertising. The company's signs have ranged from the common tin Coca-cola sign to the enormous electronic one seen today in New York City. But the red Coke sign is seen everywhere and has quite a history in varieties and types.

Tin was cheap and plentiful and many signs were tin ones. As a Coca-cola collectible, tin signs are popular and affordable. Replica signs are a very thrifty choice for anyone on even a tight budget who likes the look without the price of the real thing.

While painted tin was reasonably durable, enameled signs held their color better and were sturdier than simple tin ones and a porcelain or enamel Coca-Cola sign is a prize. These often look just about as good as they did when brand new, while tin will show more weathering on average.

Due to wood's poor durability when exposed to the elements, wooden Coca-Cola signs are among the more rare types found on the market today. The going prices usually reflect this too, as many collectors realize what a find it is to locate one that was stored away in an attic or barn or wharehouse for many years.

As to the mural type of Coke signs painted on walls, these generally are not of typical collector interest. The sheer size of some of many Coke signs make them difficult to transport and display. Hence, some smaller Coca-Cola button signs bring more than their larger counterparts.

It is remarkable just how many different types of signs were produced in the company's history. Perhaps it is this great diversity that adds to the collecting appeal of Coca-Cola signs. The round "button" sign is always a favorite among collectors and is available in many sizes. The porcelain "fountain service" flange signs are also quite popular. Additional choices for the Coca-Cola collector to consider include the rectangular, square, die-cut, cardboard, paper (festoon) and even glass (mirror) signs. Some collectors like to get an example from each category for their Coke collection.

Another fascinating aspect of Coca-Cola signs is the fact that they often were literally "signs of the times", reflecting the culture and events of the day in which they were produced. For example, at the turn of the century, Coca-Cola signs featured women wearing Victrorian-era gowns. During WWII, many of Coke's signs demonstrated support for the war effort. Christmas was a special time with Haddon Sundbloom creating a version of Santa Clause for Coca-Cola Christmas signs. For many Americans, it is this image of Santa that we know and cherish today.