Dot and Dash
- karin907
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 29
Join Donley Auctions for their "Dot and Dash - Unfiltered Podcast" as Randy and Susan Donley take you behind the scenes of their dynamic auction house. From upcoming firearm and military auctions to unique antique finds and insightful conversations, this episode offers a captivating look into the passion and expertise that drives Donley Auctions.
Highlights from the Show:
A Respectful Start and Daily Rituals [00:00]: The episode begins with a respectful nod to a dear friend and a glimpse into the daily coffee ritual at Donley Auctions, highlighting their traditions and the start of a busy preview day.
The Upcoming Guns and Military Auction [04:01]: Get an in-depth preview of their Saturday gun and military auction, featuring over 400 long guns and 200 pistols. The discussion emphasizes the legal and safe sale of firearms for collectors, historians, and hunters, alongside a powerful statement about continuing their work responsibly amidst current events.
Diverse Military Collectibles [07:46]: The military auction on Sunday promises a wide array of historical artifacts, from Napoleonic pieces to items spanning World War I, World War II, and the Civil War. Highlights include original land grants signed by James Monroe and a fascinating 1862 Civil War patent model for a gun breach.
World War II German Banners and SS Photographs [09:46]: Randy is joined by long-time collector Ben Spanelli, who shares two World War II German banners and an incredible grouping of original SS press photographs, offering a rare look into historical militaria and the changing landscape of collecting over the decades.
Respectful Handling of Sensitive Items [12:16]: Donley Auctions demonstrates its commitment to respectful display, covering a rare Nazi banner until its auction day, emphasizing their focus on collecting for historical purposes rather than prominent display of sensitive symbols.
Beyond Guns and Military: A Glimpse into Future Auctions [13:55]: A sneak peek reveals the vast and varied inventory for upcoming October auctions, including slot machines, vending machines, carousel items, vintage bicycles, and a striking ram's head newel post from a Chicago building.
Collectible Lanterns, Taxidermy, and Movie Props [15:34]: Discover a collection of usable Coleman lanterns, taxidermy (with a humorous note about Tucker the dog's dislike for it), reloading supplies, holsters, and even heavy-duty metal movie prop guns.
Bluetooth-Capable Console Radios [16:52]: Ben Ericson, a radio restoration expert, showcases beautifully restored vintage console radios, highlighting their Bluetooth capabilities. He details a Zenith Stars and Stripes model from the late 1930s with unique features like a shutter dial and a motorized tuning dial with a "green eye" tuning indicator.
The Evolution of Collecting Radios [21:25]: The discussion delves into how collecting has evolved, with vintage radios from the 1930s and 40s now in high demand, appealing to a new generation of collectors who appreciate their historical value and modern functionality.
Upcoming Auctions and Donley Auctions Hour [23:36]: The episode wraps up with a mention of upcoming sports collectibles and advertising signs for the Fall Classic in October, as well as the new "Donley Auctions Hour" radio show on WLS AM890 every Sunday at 10 AM.
Full Auction Calendar [30:05]: Don't miss the Fall Classic (October 23rd-25th), Old West and Native American collectibles (November 22nd-23rd), the John Banister collection (February 7th), and online-only auctions for razor blade displays and sports memorabilia, plus another gun and military auction in December. Donley Auctions is always looking for consignments, including real estate.
Tune in to the full podcast for more fascinating insights and exciting auction previews!
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Donley Auction Services
815-923-7000
8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)
Union, IL 60180












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