WLS Radio Show - 2025-08-09 E05 - Summer Classic

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8bJfXqUWlg

Looking to uncover the value in your vintage finds and explore the world of auctions? Tune in to The Donley Auctions Hour Podcast! Broadcasting every Saturday at 7pm CT on WLS 890AM, this is your go-to source. Join Randy, Mike, and Susan Donley of Donley Auctions as they discuss their upcoming Summer Classic auction, the booming sports memorabilia market, and provide valuable insights on how to sell your items to get top dollar for your antiques and collectibles. Catch all episodes at DonleyAuctions.com/radio and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform for new episode notifications.

Episode Highlights

• Summer Classic Auction: The hosts kick off the show by highlighting their "Summer Classic" auction, which will feature a diverse range of items including coin-operated machines, advertising signs (neon and petroliana), vintage cars like a '69 Dodge Charger, and motorcycles.

• The Booming Sports Memorabilia Market: Ryan Boyle, Donley Auctions' sports collectibles expert, discusses the current strength of the market and his recent experience at a major sports convention. This leads into a mention of their upcoming firearms and military items auction.

• Selling Your Items: The hosts provide a comprehensive guide on how to sell through Donley Auctions. They emphasize the difference between selling at an auction (where they aim for the highest price for the seller) versus selling to a store. They detail the consignment process, which includes contacting them with photos and location, and explain their commission structure, which covers all the work from pickup to shipping.

• Rare Auction Finds: The episode dives into specific items for the August 16 auction, including a rare 11-foot United ball bowler game, vintage pinball machines, unique advertising signs like a neon Packard sign, and a restored Orange Crush dispenser.

• The World of Toys: A discussion about the evolution of toy collecting reveals how the market has shifted from older items like cast iron banks and windup robots to more modern "blister card" toys like Star Wars and Pokemon cards. They note that while older toys still hold value, the market for 70s and 80s collectibles is now highly sought after, with some Pokemon cards selling for millions.

• Jewelry, Watches, and Architectural Salvage: The show concludes with a look at other unique items, including a large collection of gold pocket watches, a shoe shine station likely from a Chicago train station, and two antique bars. They also express interest in acquiring more architectural items like chandeliers and leaded windows, as well as cars for their future auctions.

• 2025-08-09 - The Donley Auctions Hour - Episode 5