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Auctioneers of antiques.
Collectors of cool.
Veterans of vintage.
8512 S. Union Road
Union, Illinois
815-923-7000
Serving Collectors and Consignors Worldwide
The Donley Auctions Hour
Every Sunday at 10 am on WLS 890AM
See photos and find out more about some of the things
Heard on the Radio
2:24 The Projectionist's Tomb
In this episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered , Randy and Susan Donley take us behind the scenes for an exclusive "unpacking" of a massive treasure trove of antiques. From rare musical machines to iconic Hollywood props and legendary sports cards, this episode is a must-watch for any serious collector preparing for the upcoming May auctions. Episode Highlights The Unveiling of the Mills Bow Front Violano [ 03:13 ] Randy reveals a "best in the world" Mills Bow Front Violano.
7 days ago
We Used to Be Friends!
We Used to Be Friends: Mechanical Marvels & The Rider Collection In this episode, Randy Donley and Susan are joined by a true legend in the world of mechanical music, Dave Ramey, Jr. The Ramey family has been the gold standard for restoring and manufacturing Nickelodeons, band organs, and orchestrions since the 1950s. Together, they take us on a tour through the spectacular Frank Rider Collection, offering a rare look at some of the most intricate musical machines ever built
Feb 13
Hollywood Blvd Cinema Memorabilia Auction, 9am CT Sat, Mar. 28, 2026
Own a Piece of the Legend! Hollywood Blvd Cinema is making way for a massive luxury remodel. We are NOT CLOSING, but we are opening our collection to the public for a once-in-a-lifetime auction event. This is your unique opportunity to buy the magic and take the history home. Hundreds of items from every corner of the building are hitting the block, including: Iconic Vehicles & Statues: The Blues Brothers Bluesmobile and Statue, the Wicked Witch of the West, and life-size Te
Feb 5
See more posts on our Heard on the Radio blog!
Every Sunday at 10 am on WLS 890AM
Catch up on all the episodes below!
2:24 The Projectionist's Tomb
In this episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered , Randy and Susan Donley take us behind the scenes for an exclusive "unpacking" of a massive treasure trove of antiques. From rare musical machines to iconic Hollywood props and legendary sports cards, this episode is a must-watch for any serious collector preparing for the upcoming May auctions. Episode Highlights The Unveiling of the Mills Bow Front Violano [ 03:13 ] Randy reveals a "best in the world" Mills Bow Front Violano.
7 days ago
We Used to Be Friends!
We Used to Be Friends: Mechanical Marvels & The Rider Collection In this episode, Randy Donley and Susan are joined by a true legend in the world of mechanical music, Dave Ramey, Jr. The Ramey family has been the gold standard for restoring and manufacturing Nickelodeons, band organs, and orchestrions since the 1950s. Together, they take us on a tour through the spectacular Frank Rider Collection, offering a rare look at some of the most intricate musical machines ever built
Feb 13
Hollywood Blvd Cinema Memorabilia Auction, 9am CT Sat, Mar. 28, 2026
Own a Piece of the Legend! Hollywood Blvd Cinema is making way for a massive luxury remodel. We are NOT CLOSING, but we are opening our collection to the public for a once-in-a-lifetime auction event. This is your unique opportunity to buy the magic and take the history home. Hundreds of items from every corner of the building are hitting the block, including: Iconic Vehicles & Statues: The Blues Brothers Bluesmobile and Statue, the Wicked Witch of the West, and life-size Te
Feb 5
I Need a Mint!
In this episode of the Donley Auctions podcast, Randy and Susan dive into the high-stakes world of military history and auction strategy. As the team prepares for the highly anticipated Banister Collection auction, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at rare artifacts—from D-Day battle plans to presidential land grants—while providing essential tips on how to navigate the technical side of online bidding to ensure you never lose out on a "must-have" item. Episode Highlights
Feb 5
Kenny Rogers Roasters
In the world of high-end military antiques, provenance is everything. In the latest episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered , Randy Donley dives deep into the upcoming Banister Collection —a treasure trove of WWII artifacts that has the collecting world buzzing. From top-secret D-Day documents to rare "relic" rifles pulled from the sands of Omaha Beach, this episode is a masterclass in the history and market value of the "Arsenal of Democracy." Whether you are a seasoned invest
Jan 30
Hollywood!
In this thrilling episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered , Randy and Susan take us on a journey from the iconic Hollywood Boulevard Cinema in Woodridge, Illinois, to a high-stakes auction of rare military and historical artifacts. Whether you are a fan of Hollywood memorabilia, a military history buff, or a collector of rare autographs, this episode is packed with treasures that are headed for the auction block. Episode Highlights [ 00:12 ] Hollywood Boulevard Cinema Remodel
Jan 23
Laser Tag
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 antiqu
Jan 17
Randy & the Riders
Welcome to the Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast, where history meets the highest bidder. Randy Donley and the rest of the Donley Auctions team are here to bring you the thrill of the auction, the behind-the-scenes scoop, and everything in between. We've got amazing stories behind the treasures, even some crazy stories you wouldn't believe. Insider tips for both buyers and consigners and maybe even a cameo or two from Tucker, the auction dog. Whether you’re a seasoned collec
Jan 9
Barn Find 1943 Willys MB Jeep
Unearthing a Legend: A 1943 Willys MB "Barn Find" Jeep Emerges! Imagine the scene: a dusty barn in a quiet northern Wisconsin town, the air thick with the scent of hay and forgotten history. Tucked away amongst forgotten tools and boxes, a silhouette emerges – unmistakable, iconic. This isn't just any old vehicle; it's a genuine piece of World War II history, a 1943 Willys MB Jeep, and it's been waiting for decades to tell its story. This incredible "barn find" has been with
Jan 6
WWII Lizard?
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 auctio
Jan 2
Paybacks Are Worse!
High-Octane Stunts, Rock Stars, and Rare Antiques: Inside This Week’s Donley Auctions Radio Show This week’s episode is packed with the kind of eclectic energy and insider expertise you’ve come to expect from the team. From stunt-double realtors to rock-and-roll guests, Randy and the crew cover serious ground. We’re diving into market trends for firearms, teasing incredible upcoming collections (including some "Holy Grail" phonographs), and sharing a hilarious prank story tha
Dec 19, 2025
Have At It!
Guns, Safes, and The "Clown Truck" Calliope: Unpacking the Ryder Collection and More This week’s episode is a masterclass in the "thrill of the hunt." We kick things off with a final rally for the massive firearms and ammo auction, but the real heart of the show is a heartwarming and hilarious deep dive into the legendary Ryder Collection. Randy sits down with Hope Ryder and her sons to share incredible stories of how the late Frank Ryder acquired some of the world’s rarest a
Dec 12, 2025
Oooooh Sally!
From Radio City to Rare Coin-Ops: Unveiling the Frank Ryder Collection Welcome back to Donley’s Unfiltered Podcast! In this episode, Randy and Susan take us on a whirlwind journey that begins with the dazzling holiday lights of New York City and ends in the dusty trenches of a massive antique extraction in Indiana. It is a perfect blend of holiday magic and the gritty reality of high-stakes auction hunting. Whether you are here for the review of the Radio City Rockettes or th
Dec 6, 2025
WLS Radio Show 2025-11-30 E21
Radio Show Recap: D-Day Secrets, "Chicago Typewriters," and Million-Dollar Sports Cards Welcome to the latest edition of the Donley Auctions Hour on WLS 890! Host Susan joins the Donley team—Randy, Mike, Chris, John, and the Ryans—to recap a Thanksgiving weekend of treasure hunting and preview a packed December auction schedule. From discovering Top Secret WWII intelligence in a basement to analyzing the exploding market for vintage sports cards, this episode is a masterclass
Nov 30, 2025
I'm Weaponized Now!
Market Shifts, Extinct Birds, and D-Day Secrets Welcome back to another episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered ! Randy and Susan are back to recap a wild weekend of sales and give us the inside scoop on what’s shaking up the antiques world. From shifting collector demographics to a shocking sale of an extinct bird, this episode is packed with market insights and historical treasures. Whether you're a seasoned buyer or just love a good story, you won't want to miss these highli
Nov 26, 2025
WLS Radio Show 2025-11-23 E201
Treasures in the Trash? Plus, Razor Blades, Ragtime, and $90k Amps Fresh off the heels of a record-breaking "Cowboys and Indians" event, the energy in the studio is electric this week! If you think the auction action slows down for the holidays, think again. In this episode of the Donley Auctions Hour , Susan, Mike, and Randy dive into a packed December calendar perfect for unique gift-giving. They share incredible stories of "junk" turning into jackpots and put out a massive
Nov 23, 2025
I Didn't Know You Were Filming
Rare Relics & Wild West Nostalgia: Inside the Donley Auctions "Cowboys & Indians" Event Welcome back to another behind-the-scenes look at the world of high-stakes antiques! In this episode, Randy Donley and Susan—sporting a dramatic new brunette look—take us on an exclusive tour of the upcoming "Cowboys & Indians" auction. From the dusty trails of the American frontier to the polished elegance of Arts and Crafts furniture, this show reveals the incredible provenance behind th
Nov 21, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-11-16 E19
Chasing History with Dr. Mike & A Wild West Preview! Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour, where we don't just sell antiques—we chase history. This week's episode was an absolute must-listen, taking us from the dusty trails of the Old West to the birth of recorded sound. Host Susan and the Donley team, Randy and Mike, brought us an incredible hour. If you're passionate about the stories behind the items, you'll want to hear this. Here’s a look at the treasures and tales they u
Nov 16, 2025
Measuring Short Snorters
A Veteran’s Story, Wild West Gold & a Serial Killer’s Confession This week, the Donley Auctions team takes us on a poignant journey into history, starting with a heartfelt tribute to our nation's heroes. In honor of Veterans Day, Randy and Mike Donley share the incredibly moving story of a local aviator, reminding us that every antique has a human story. From there, the episode pivots to an unbelievable music auction and a contest for all you Wild West fans. This is one you w
Nov 14, 2025
Rifles, Carbines, and Revolvers of the Old West Era
🤠 The Code of the West: Rifles, Carbines, and Revolvers of the Old West Era The Old West was defined by speed, skill, and the legendary steel carried on the hip and saddle. For collectors of Americana, no category holds more dramatic appeal than the authentic firearms that won the frontier—the lever-action rifles, cavalry carbines, and single-action revolvers. This November 22nd, our Cowboys & Indians Auction presents a remarkable selection of these historical artifacts, al
Nov 12, 2025
Rare Extinct Passenger Pigeon Display
🕊️ Witness to Extinction: The Profound Rarity of a Passenger Pigeon Display Some auction lots are rare because of their craftsmanship; others are rare because of their provenance. Lot #1238 is rare for a much more profound reason: it is a tangible, preserved witness to one of the greatest ecological tragedies in North American history—the extinction of the Passenger Pigeon . This is a museum-quality taxidermy specimen of a Passenger Pigeon, a bird that once darkened the ski
Nov 12, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-11-09 E18
We're Chasing History & We Need Your Collections! Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour! This week, hosts Mike and Randy Donley are pulling back the curtain on the state of the collecting world. The days of "antiquing" in small-town shops are over [ 01:30 ]; the market is now global, digital, and being fueled by massive, generational collections coming to light. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has inherited a collection and doesn't know where to start. The Donley b
Nov 9, 2025
You're Fired!
"You're Fired!" - Inside the Studio & On the Road for Antiques Welcome to the Donley Auctions unfiltered podcast! This week, Susan and Randy give us a peek behind the curtain, starting right inside the studio where they broadcast their weekly WLS 890 AM radio show [ 00:31 ]. After a quick debate about Randy's beard (which Susan likes, so it’s staying [ 00:06 ]), the two get down to business, sharing a flurry of upcoming auctions and incredible finds. This episode is all about
Nov 7, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-11-02 E17
What's Hot? Donley's Experts on "Sleepers" and Bidding Wars! Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour! This week, Randy, Mike, and Susan are recapping their massive October Fall Classic auction, and the results are a masterclass in why you should never have a garage sale. The episode is packed with stories of "sleeper" items—things estimated for a few hundred dollars that exploded into thousand-dollar bidding wars. This is a must-listen for anyone who thinks their "old junk" isn'
Nov 1, 2025
Happy Halloween!
Halloween, Outlaw Death Masks & a B-17 Bomber! Welcome to the Donley Auctions unfiltered podcast! This week, Randy and Susan kick off the Halloween weekend surrounded by the "organized chaos" of shipping out items from their last successful auction [ 00:43 ]. While the team is buried in bubble wrap, they're already looking ahead to their next massive sales, including an incredible new military auction and the long-awaited Donley's Wild West town collection. This episode takes
Oct 31, 2025
Rare Griswold Red Star Peanut Machine
Early coin op peanut machine made by the Griswold Mfg. Co. for the Red Star Sanitary Vending Machine Co. of Davenport Iowa, circa 1914. Hexagon cast-iron base on feet with original flared globe, aluminum tray, and 1 cent dial operated coin slot. Accepts coins and vends. Missing back door. This example is in VG condition with original paint with all original parts. Pictured in "Silent Salesman" by Bill Enes, page 39. Measures 20" tall.
Oct 29, 2025
Campbells Soup Curved Porcelain Sign
This sign came right out of a basement of a building in Brooklyn NY and is being offered here for the very first time. Curved porcelain sign in the shape of and advertising the iconic Campbells Tomato Soup. In overall good+ condition with some chips (see photos). Retains original strap iron mounting bracket. of sign has been cleaned with soap and water only to remove heavy grime (see photo of sign half cleaned). Measures 22.5" tall, 12.75"wide.
Oct 29, 2025
Edison 32A Stock Ticker
The iconic wall street ticker tape machine from the 1920's Made by Thomas A. Edison Inc. these machines were leased to brokers by Western Union so they could receive real time stock prices printed on a continuous strip of paper right in their office. This machine is serial No. 3771. It has been restored and is one of the nicest we have seen. Comes with glass dome with rubber edge gasket. Lettering on front reads, Quotations furnished by the Western Union Telegraph Co. App
Oct 29, 2025
Monumental Victorian Stained Glass Window
A truly monumental and masterful stained glass window from the late 19th or early 20th century. This is a museum-quality piece of decorative art, depicting a romantic, allegorical scene of a courting couple in a lush garden. The window showcases the pinnacle of the glass artist's craft with exquisite, kiln-fired hand-painting to achieve incredible depth and detail in the figures' faces, drapery, and surrounding foliage. Originally created for a grand Gilded Age mansion or pub
Oct 29, 2025
Face Jugs
Lot 1249 In the realm of Southern folk pottery, particularly North Carolina stoneware, this is a fantastic example of a contemporary face jug by Billy Joe Craven of Craven Pottery, Inc. in Commerce, GA. This piece clearly carries the tradition of the Craven family, direct descendants of Peter Craven, the 1st Generation Historic Potter in the USA. The jug is made of salt-glazed stoneware, featuring a vibrant, dripping alkaline glaze in earthy browns and striking blue-grey tone
Oct 29, 2025
Japp's Potato Chips
The Holy Grail of potato chip cans. Mrs. Japp's was one of the most famous potato chip brands in Chicago and the suburbs. At the outbreak of WWII when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, the Japp family, from Chicago, was forced to change the name of their brand to Jay's Potato Chips. Most of the Mrs. Japp's tins were scrapped for the war effort making them one of the hardest tins to find. This lot contained both a Mrs. Japp's tin and a Jay's tin. Both were in good condit
Oct 28, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-10-26 E16
Al Capone's Piano, Buffalo Bill, & Dumpster Diving for Treasure! Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour, where history and opportunity collide! This week, hosts Randy, Mike, and Susan are fresh off their massive Fall Classic auction and are already hunting for treasures for their next sales. This episode was a whirlwind of incredible stories, from Al Capone's barber to Buffalo Bill's Chicago showdown. The team is actively building their upcoming auctions, and this show is your i
Oct 25, 2025
What it is is what it is
Get ready, collectors! Randy and Susan Donley are back with a preview of the massive October Fall Classic auction, and it’s a three-day event you simply can’t miss. The showroom is packed to the gills, and in this episode, we get a whirlwind tour of the absolute treasures hitting the block. From museum-worthy artifacts to nostalgic advertising and full-size cars, this sale truly has something for everyone. As Randy says, "what it is is what it is," and what it is ... is spect
Oct 22, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-10-19 E15
Patek Philippe in a Watch Box & A $24,000 Flying Horse Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour! This week, the team—Randy, Mike, Susan, and "Trifecta" expert Ryan (#1)—is buzzing with excitement for their biggest sale of the year, the October Fall Classic. This episode is a treasure map, guiding you through the show-stopping items coming to the block and revealing the incredible stories behind them. From multi-thousand-dollar finds in unassuming boxes to the wild history of pinba
Oct 19, 2025
Can We Eat Now?
Step into the world of high-end antiques with us at Donley Auctions! This episode is a whirlwind tour of the exciting, and sometimes...
Oct 12, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-10-12 E14
e to the Donley Auctions Hour! Here, the thrill of the hunt meets the excitement of the auction block. In this episode, hosts Susan, Mike, and Randy Donley take us on a captivating journey through the world of antiques, military relics, and unique collectibles. From behind-the-scenes glimpses of promoting upcoming auctions to incredible tales of rare finds, this episode is a must-listen for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the auction scene.
Oct 12, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-10-05 E13
come to the Donley Auctions Hour! Here, the thrill of the hunt meets the excitement of the auction block. In this episode, hosts Susan, Mike, and Randy Donley take us on a captivating journey through the world of antiques, military relics, and unique collectibles. From behind-the-scenes glimpses of promoting upcoming auctions to incredible tales of rare finds, this episode is a must-listen for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the auction scene.
Oct 5, 2025
Scarce as Hen's Teeth
Join Susan and Randy from Donley Auctions for an unfiltered dive into their upcoming October auction, where rare and remarkable finds...
Oct 4, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-09-28 E12 - War Booty
Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour! Here, the thrill of the hunt meets the excitement of the auction block. In this episode, hosts Susan, Mike, and Randy Donley take us on a captivating journey through the world of antiques, military relics, and unique collectibles. From behind-the-scenes glimpses of promoting upcoming auctions to incredible tales of rare finds, this episode is a must-listen for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the auction scene. Highlights from the
Sep 28, 2025
The Unedited Version
This episode is a two-part special! We're on the road with Randy Donley at the Indie Ad Show and back in the showroom for a sneak peek at...
Sep 26, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-09-21 E11 - New Time!
Your Guide to Antiques and Auctions with Donley Auctions Welcome to another exciting episode of the Donley Auctions Hour! Join hosts Susan, Randy, and Mike Donley as they delve into the fascinating world of high-end antiques and provide expert guidance on buying and selling at auction. In this episode, they announce a new broadcast time, share incredible success stories, and explain the seamless process of consigning and bidding. Here are the highlights from the show: New Sho
Sep 21, 2025
Dot and Dash
Join Donley Auctions for their "Dot and Dash - Unfiltered Podcast" as Randy and Susan Donley take you behind the scenes of their dynamic...
Sep 19, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-09-13 E10 - Napoleon Bonaparte
Unveiling History: A Journey Through Donley Auctions' Military and Sports Collectibles Welcome to the Donley Auctions Hour! In this episode, hosts Susan, Mike, and Randy Donley, joined by military expert John Litis and sports memorabilia specialist Ryan Bole, offer a captivating look at upcoming auctions, incredible finds, and expert advice for collectors. Get ready to explore everything from rare military relics and historical documents to sought-after sports memorabilia and
Sep 13, 2025
Surprise!
Welcome to the Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast, where history meets the highest bidder. Randy Surprise! Donley Auctions' Unfiltered...
Sep 12, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-09-06 E09 - Doozy in Brooklyn
Donley Auctions: Unearthing Hidden Gems and Auction Insights Welcome to another exciting episode of the Donley Auctions Hour! In this captivating broadcast, hosts Susan, Mike, and Randy Donley delve into the thrilling world of antiques, military relics, and unique collectibles. From secret acquisitions in Brooklyn to Civil War treasures and highly sought-after musical instruments, this episode offers a treasure trove of information for seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.
Sep 6, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-08-30 E08 - WWII Memorabilia
This episode of "The Donley Auctions Hour" provides a fantastic overview of our services and a sneak peek into the exciting items coming to auction. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in consigning or acquiring high-end collectibles, from military relics to classic cars. Highlights from this episode: The Consignment Process: The show details the easy, no-charge consignment process, which starts with a simple phone call and sending photos. Experts provide free estimates
Aug 30, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-08-23 E07 - The Power of Provenance
Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Auctions: Insights from Randy and Mike Donley Understanding the Auction World In the first half of the episode, hosts Randy and Mike Donley discuss the purpose of their show: to educate listeners on the auction world and how to sell their items for top dollar. Randy shares an amusing story about a collector who was advised to avoid Donley's because their auctions fetch too much money. This highlights their effectiveness for sellers. Mike e
Aug 23, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-08-16 E06 - The Eagle's Nest
Curious about the value of your old military artifacts, vintage license plates, or sports card collections? In this episode of The Donley Auctions Hour Podcast, Randy, Mike, and Susan Donley reveal the stories behind some incredible finds—including tiles from Hitler's Eagle's Nest, a Civil War autograph album, and a world-record-breaking license plate. They also share a behind-the-scenes look at their recent "Summer Classic" auction and offer crucial advice for anyone conside
Aug 16, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-08-09 E05 - Summer Classic
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 ep
Aug 9, 2025
WLS Radio Show - 2025-08-02 E04 - Babe Ruth
Searching for great finds and expert advice? Look no further than The Donley Auctions Hour Podcast! This is your go-to source for all things antiques, broadcasting every Saturday at 7pm CT on WLS 890AM. Join Randy, Mike, and Susan Donley of Donley Auctions as they reveal the secrets of the auction world and help you understand the value of your collectibles. This episode is packed with an exciting discussion with special guest Ted London, who shares details about his incredib
Aug 2, 2025
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