Scarce as Hen's Teeth

Donley Auctions
Oct 4
3 min read

Updated: Oct 5

Join Susan and Randy from Donley Auctions for an unfiltered dive into their upcoming October auction, where rare and remarkable finds abound. From vintage Hollywood to classic cars and unique collectibles, this episode promises a thrilling tour of items you won't want to miss!

Highlights from the Show:

Warner Brothers Bronze Plaque [01:12]: Randy introduces a magnificent, heavy bronze plaque from Warner Brothers Pictures, noting its rarity as it predates their current shield logo and would have come from a demolished or remodeled building.
A World of Collectibles [02:11]: Beyond the bronze plaque, the auction boasts a vast array of movie memorabilia, slot machines, juke boxes, and antique architectural pieces, along with an eclectic mix of lamps from the 1950s to leaded shades.
Ronald McDonald's Shoes & More [02:47]: A highlight is a pair of autographed red leather Ronald McDonald shoes, signed by King Moody, the fifth Ronald McDonald (1969-1985). Other McDonald's and barber shop memorabilia, including black Americana, will also be featured.
Vintage Vending and Lighters [03:37]: Discover a rare mirror advertising piece from Steinblock Company, a wholesale tailor, and a unique match vending machine [03:46]. The hosts also showcase interesting lighters, including one that sparks with a coil for cigars [04:05] and a striker lighter.
Automobile Mascots [04:30]: The auction includes a massive collection of automobile mascots, or "hood ornaments" as Randy sometimes calls them. The collection features futuristic designs, a Mack Bulldog, a Dodge Ram, and a coveted Rolls-Royce mascot.
Brunswick Monarch Pool Table [07:51]: Susan shares a personal anecdote about playing pool with Randy, leading into the reveal of a "holy grail" of antique pool tables – a Brunswick Monarch with intricate cast iron lion's heads and inlaid woodwork, described as "scarce as hen's teeth."
Historic Wagons and Carriages [09:03]: The pavilion houses an old milk wagon, likely from McHenry or Lake County, notable for its unique design where the driver stands at the back. Also featured are a custom-built, operating wooden stagecoach [10:11] and a charming doctor's buggy.
1931 Model A Coupe Revival [11:00]: Bob, the auto mechanic, is hard at work getting a 1931 standard Model A coupe running. This original-condition car, built in the last six months of production for that model, features a distinctive indented firewall and an external gas shut-off.
The Last of Barn of Barington's Carousel Animals [14:10]: Donley Auctions presents the final selection from the extensive Barn of Barington carousel animal collection. These include a Hershel horse transformed into a rocking horse [14:47], a Heyn reindeer in original park paint [15:50], a Heyn giraffe, and a beautiful Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC) outside row stander horse [17:00] with its original brass tag.
Sports Memorabilia Extravaganza [19:41]: Ryan introduces a treasure trove of sports memorabilia, including a Ricky Henderson autographed baseball base with JSA certification, an Earl Campbell autographed mini helmet, and a Joe Bellino autographed item.
Dick Butkus's Alumni Ring [21:07]: The highlight of the sports collection is a very special Chicago Bears alumni ring made for the late Dick Butkus. This magnificent ring, adorned with rubies and diamonds, was created just a month before his passing and is part of the Bob O'Neal collection.
Gabby the Fortune Teller [24:55]: The episode concludes with a playful appearance by Gabby, the "old fortune teller," who predicts gold and good fortune for the listeners.