WWII Lizard?
- Donley Auctions
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Welcome back to Donley Auctions! We’ve survived the holiday whirlwind (even if Randy’s still got a "Festivus Pole" on display), and we’re kicking off 2026 with some absolutely massive finds. From a 1918 German cannon to a treasure trove of neon signs, this episode is packed with sneak peeks of what's coming to the auction block.
If you thought last year was big, wait until you see the firepower—literally—we’ve got lined up for February. Plus, Susan lays down the law on auction bidding (no excuses!), and Randy shares a surprising history lesson on vintage gas pumps. Whether you’re a military history buff or just love retro Americana, this episode has something for you.
Skim the highlights below, then listen to the full episode to catch all the banter and expert insights!
Episode Highlights
00:00 — Randy kicks things off with the "Festivus Pole" and a Seinfeld reference, followed by the "airing of grievances" (including a strict "don’t click your pen" rule from Susan!).
01:05 — The great winter debate: Where does everyone go when it gets cold? Randy jokes about Union, IL being the winter hotspot.
01:53 — Sneak Peek: A massive 75mm German infantry cannon (circa 1918) has arrived for the February 7 Military Auction. It shot a two-piece shell powered by "doughnuts of propellant".
02:12 — Karin thinks the cannon looks like a "lizard with big things sticking out of its head." Randy vehemently disagrees. (You be the judge!).
03:09 — The February 7 auction will be a huge one-day event combining the John Bannister Collection (200+ lots) with military firearms and ammo.
03:40 — The John McCauley Sign Collection: An incredible haul of automobilia signs, gas pumps, and advertising pieces. Randy marvels at how McCauley found all of this high-end material.
04:18 — Randy gives a history lesson on vintage gas pumps. Back in the '70s in Union, IL, every farmer had their own pump—they were everywhere! Now, finding an unrestored one is rare.
06:21 — A look at a "Mae West" style gas pump by Fry (note the curvy shape) and a discussion on restored vs. original "rusty gold" condition.
07:45 — Rock-Ola Jukeboxes: A rare pair of Model 1422 jukeboxes will be featured in the Spring Classic Coin-Op Show (coming in April or May).
08:24 — Neon Signs: It’s not just porcelain; there’s a ton of neon coming up. Just remember: Donley Auctions cannot ship neon. You have to pick it up or hire a transporter.
09:25 — A shout-out to the "King of Corn"—a DeKalb corn sign that Susan requested for Christmas.
11:32 — Upcoming Online-Only Auction (Jan 15): Susan announces a "Classic Opulence" general antiques auction. It features fine art, sculptures, and even 60 lots of glass from the Wild West Town Museum.
12:20 — Susan explains how online auctions work: You don’t have to wait for the item to close! You can place your "max bid" early, and the system will bid for you up to that amount.
13:14 — Randy’s "wish list" for consignments: He is always hunting for military relics (WWII uniforms, paratrooper gear), aviation items, and vintage sports memorabilia.
15:00 — Monuments & Municipalities: Randy mentions they can even sell big items like tanks, cannons, and statues for cities that have them in storage.
15:28 — The Gold Rush: Ryan has been doing huge numbers with coins, gold, and silver. Check your jewelry boxes—scrap gold is worth a lot right now.
16:35 — A funny story about Randy’s son, Scott, hunting for his childhood Pokémon cards in the attic because they are now worth thousands.
17:30 — Call to Action: Susan wants to fill the 2026 calendar! If you have a collection (Pokemon, coins, military, or signs), call 815-923-7000 to get on the schedule.
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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!