Laser Tag
- Donley Auctions
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 18
Inside the Auction House: Rare Flak Guns, Steam Engines, and Major Collection Announcements
In this action-packed episode, Susan & Randy return from a "working vacation" in Mexico only to find that the real treasures were waiting for them back at the warehouse. From the unveiling of an incredibly rare WWII-era artillery piece to the logistical feat of shipping a massive steam engine across the globe, this show offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of the high-end antique world.
We also join the team in the studio for a crucial broadcast update. They announce a slate of major upcoming collections—ranging from political history to sports legends—and share expert insights on why the auction method remains the gold standard for realizing true market value for your assets. Whether you are a serious military collector or just love the history of the hunt, this episode is a must-watch.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] – The Quest for Cannons: The team is back from Mexico! Randy shares a humorous story about his relentless search for antique cannons even while on vacation, proving that for a true auctioneer, the hunt never really stops.
[01:11] – A Rare Arrival: While the team was away, a stunning piece arrived: a 1939 Romanian-manufactured 37mm anti-aircraft flak gun. With only around 360 of these ever produced, it is an exceptionally rare find compared to its German counterparts.
[02:01]– The Banister Auction Strategy: Insight into how the February 7 event is structured. The "1000s" lots feature the John Banister D-Day collection, while the "2000s" lots will showcase other high-end military consignments, including the newly arrived flak gun.
[03:20]– Call for Heavy Metal: Donley Auctions is actively seeking to consign or purchase tanks, cannons, and field pieces. If you know of municipalities or parks looking to rehome these massive historical artifacts, this is the team to contact.
[04:35]– Moving a Behemoth: Witness the logistical challenge of moving a 10-ton steam engine in the freezing Illinois winter. This massive piece of industrial history is beginning its journey to the Chamsori Museum in Gangneung, South Korea, 2 hours from Seoul.
[08:37] – Live from WLS: The crew takes over the airwaves on WLS AM890. It is a bittersweet moment as they announce this will be their last radio broadcast for a while as they shift focus to upcoming major events.
[10:03]– Historic License Plates: Mike Donley previews the March 5 online-only auction featuring rare license plates, including official plates from the estate of former Illinois Governor George Ryan.
[11:54]– Sports Legends on the Block: Ryan Boyle teases the April 18 & 19 Bobby O'Neal collection. Highlights include a Dick Butkus alumni ring and five MLB Hall of Fame busts.
[12:55]– Targeted Marketing: A look at the "secret sauce" of high-end auctions. The marketing team explains how they ensure specific collections reach the exact right collectors globally.
[13:45]– The Auction Advantage: Randy delivers a masterclass on why auctions differ from private sales. Instead of negotiating down, auctions drive prices up through global competition—essential knowledge for anyone looking to sell high-value assets.
[15:10]– Team Bonding: The episode wraps up with some fun footage from the company holiday party, featuring a competitive game of laser tag.
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Donley Auction Services
815-923-7000
8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)
Union, IL 60180
Donley Auctions is a team of experienced auction professionals dedicated to creating a fun and exciting auction experience. With a rich history connected to the original Union Phonograph Show, the Seven Acres Museum, and Donley’s Wild West Town, Donley Auctions offers a diverse range of items for both seasoned collectors and newcomers. Specializing in firearms, militaria, coin-op, phonographs, cars, motorcycles, petroliana, antique advertising, architecture, coins, sports memorabilia, early inventions, and more, we are the place to get top dollar for your high-quality antiques and collectibles. We host live and in-person auctions monthly, complete with complimentary food and beverages, as well as online auctions at DonleyAuctions.com, where you can bid from anywhere in the world. Our friendly atmosphere, combined with our commitment to providing an engaging auction experience and expert shipping, makes us the go-to auction house for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you're looking to buy or sell, Donley Auctions is the place to be!
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