Doe and Hope

Description

The vintage circular white glass private petrol pump globe, having dramatic lettering in black inscribed ‘Not for Resale’ to both sides, survives from the second quarter of the twentieth century.

The condition is fair, there are several large chips to flange, the lettering to one side has all but faded whilst the lettering to the other side has been worn, the whole with surface scratches. Collectors may prefer something mint but the condition more than meets the requirements of those looking for a decorative fix. Its appeal is heightened in this sense as it shows its age.

Petrol globes are highly collectable and this example is British made by Hailware (Hailwood and Ackroyd for Shellmex & BP Ltd and is most likely pre-war. Shellmex was the commercial brand of Shell. Initially the brand was called Mex which had been a brand of the Bowring Petroleum Co Ltd who had been taken over by Shell in 1921. By 1930 the Shellmex brand name was prominent in advertisements and was to last another 30 years before being re branded to Shell Economy.

Proving hugely decorative, this example, despite its protesting is actually for resale, and I’d be quick if I were you.