We Buy & Sell Vintage Oil Cans

At AntiqueSignGuy, we specialize in discovering and acquiring rare, high-value oil cans and other treasured petroliana. If you’re the son or daughter of a collector who has lovingly filled a garage, shop, or barn with oil cans, pumps, signs, and other vintage petroleum artifacts, we understand the sentimental and historical value of these collections. Whether you’re looking to downsize, manage an estate, or simply find a new home for your family’s cherished items, we’re here to help. At AntiqueSignGuy.com, we offer a respectful and professional approach to evaluate and purchase these unique pieces, ensuring they continue to be appreciated by enthusiasts who value their rich historical significance. Let us help you honor your family’s legacy by giving these vintage treasures the platform and recognition they deserve.

History of Oil Cans

The history of oil cans is closely tied to the rise of the industrial age and the subsequent development of the automobile industry. These containers, essential for storing and dispensing oil, have undergone significant changes in design and material over the years, reflecting advancements in manufacturing and the evolving needs of consumers.

Early Beginnings

Oil cans made their first appearance in the late 19th century as the industrial revolution was in full swing. Initially, they were simple utilitarian containers made from metal that were used to hold various types of lubricants needed for machinery, farm equipment, and early engines. These cans were typically equipped with a spout and a handle for easy use.

The 20th Century and Mass Production

As automobiles became more common in the early 20th century, the demand for motor oil surged, leading to innovations in oil can design. The 1920s to 1940s saw the introduction of the soldered seam can and later, the crimped seam can, which improved durability and leak prevention. This period also saw the emergence of the quart-size can, which became a standard due to its convenience for automobile owners.

Branding and Collectibility

Oil companies quickly recognized the marketing potential of oil cans, making them colorful and decorating them with logos and artwork to distinguish their brands. Companies like Texaco, Mobil, and Shell used distinctive designs that are now iconic. The aesthetic appeal of these cans, coupled with their brand associations, began to make them collectible items.

Technological Advances

The mid-20th century brought further changes with the introduction of composite cans, which included a combination of metal and cardboard, and eventually, the all-plastic oil can in the 1980s. These innovations were driven by the need for cost reduction, improved functionality, and the desire to make cans that were easier to open and dispense from.

Modern Times and Collecting

Today, the practical use of metal oil cans has largely been replaced by plastic bottles with integrated spouts. However, the older metal cans remain highly prized by collectors. Enthusiasts seek them for their historical value, their connection to the golden age of the automobile, and their role as artifacts of industrial design. Events, swap meets, and online auctions are popular venues where collectors gather to trade and showcase these pieces of history.

Thus, oil cans are not just functional items but are also cherished collectibles that offer a window into the past, reflecting the technological advancements and cultural shifts of their times.

Vintage Oil Cans

Here is an alphabetized list of California-based oil companies that produced collectible oil cans, complete with descriptions:

Associated Oil Company – Famous for its “Flying A” brand, this company produced vibrant and distinctly branded oil cans in various sizes, highly collectible today.
Belridge Oil Company – Operating primarily in California, Belridge produced various sizes of oil cans, valued for their rarity and local significance.
Calol (California Oil Company) – A lesser-known company that produced various oil can sizes, valued for its rarity and unique California heritage.
California Petroleum Corporation (Calpet) – Known for producing a range of petroleum products, their oil cans are collectible due to their historical connection to California’s oil industry.
Elk Hills Oil Field (Reserve Oil and Gas Company) – Operating in one of California’s most productive oil fields, their cans are collectible for their historical significance.
Flying A Service – Part of the Tidewater Oil Company, known for its iconic imagery, producing a variety of oil can sizes.
General Petroleum Corporation (Mobil) – A subsidiary of Mobil based in California, known for collectible oil cans produced under the General Petroleum name.
Gilmore Oil Company – Famous for its lion logo and “Roar with Gilmore” slogan, the company’s products, including various oil can sizes, are highly sought after.
Hancock Oil Company – Known for its distinctive “cocktail glass” logo, Hancock produced oil cans in multiple sizes and is collectible due to its unique branding.
Kern Trading & Oil Company – This company produced oil cans that are now quite rare, making them highly valued by collectors.
Montebello Oil Company – A smaller regional company, their oil cans are quite rare and sought after due to limited distribution and unique designs.
Pacific Petroleum Company – Known for distinctive branding and producing oil cans in various sizes, valued among collectors.
Richfield Oil Corporation – Based in Los Angeles, their oil cans often feature the iconic eagle logo and are found in various sizes, prized for their design and historical value.
Shell Oil Company – While an international company, its historical presence in California produced collectible oil cans, especially older ones.
Signal Oil and Gas Company – Known for their bright red and white colors with the Signal logo, produced in multiple sizes including quart and gallon.
Standard Oil Company of California (Chevron) – Known as Chevron today, their vintage oil cans are highly collectible, featuring various company logos over the decades.
Tidewater Petroleum Company – Known for “Flying A” branded products, their oil cans came in several sizes and are noted for their unique design.
Union Oil Company (76) – Recognizable for its orange and blue color scheme and the 76 logo, Union Oil produced a variety of oil can sizes.
Venice Oil Company – A smaller and more regional company, Venice Oil produced a variety of oil cans that are rare and valued for their local appeal.
Western States Petroleum Company – Known for producing oil cans in multiple sizes, these cans are rare and sought after due to the company’s smaller production scale.

This comprehensive list highlights the variety and significance of California-based oil companies in the collectible oil can market.

What are Vintage Oil Cans?

Vintage oil cans are a collectible items that dates back to the early days of the automotive and machinery industries, typically from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. These cans were used to store and dispense oil needed for the lubrication of machinery, engines, and later, automobiles.

Made primarily from metal, vintage oil cans are appreciated for their variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, which often included vibrant colors and distinctive logos of various oil companies. Collectors value these cans not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their historical significance, as they offer a glimpse into the early industrial age and the evolution of branding in the petroleum industry.

Over time, these oil cans have transcended their utilitarian origins to become cherished artifacts, with some rare and well-preserved examples commanding high prices in the collectibles market.

Why Collect Vintage Oil Cans?

Collecting vintage oil cans is a popular hobby that appeals to enthusiasts for several compelling reasons. Firstly, these cans serve as a tangible connection to the industrial and automotive history, representing a period when the oil industry was rapidly expanding and shaping modern society. Each can features unique artwork and branding, reflecting the rich heritage of various oil companies and the evolution of graphic design over the decades.

Moreover, the diversity in shapes, sizes, and colors of these cans adds a visual richness to any collection, making them attractive display pieces for decorators and historians alike. Collecting these cans also offers the thrill of the hunt for rare and unusual items, providing a rewarding challenge for collectors. Lastly, vintage oil cans hold potential financial value, with rare and well-preserved examples often appreciating in price, making them not just a hobby but a potential investment.

Maintenance and Care for Vintage oil cans

Maintaining and caring for vintage oil cans is crucial for collectors who wish to preserve their aesthetic and historical value. Proper maintenance not only prevents deterioration but also enhances the longevity and display quality of these collectibles. Here are some key practices for the upkeep of vintage oil cans:

Cleaning

Surface Cleaning: Start by gently wiping the surface of the oil can with a soft, dry cloth to remove loose dirt and dust. If the can is particularly dirty, you can use a cloth dampened with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that can damage the paint and metal.
Rust Removal: For rust removal, use a fine steel wool or a soft brush. Lightly scrub the rusted areas to remove the oxidation without scratching the original paint. For stubborn rust, you might consider a rust remover, but always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t harm the paint or metal.
Interior Cleaning: If the inside of the can is accessible and requires cleaning, use a mixture of warm water and baking soda to neutralize old oil residues. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely to prevent further corrosion.

Preservation

Corrosion Inhibitors: After cleaning, especially if the metal was exposed during rust removal, apply a corrosion inhibitor to protect the metal from further rust. Products like WD-40 or a silicone-based spray can offer a protective layer.
Avoid Moisture: Store oil cans in a dry environment to prevent rust and corrosion. Humidity can be particularly damaging, so consider using silica gel packs or a dehumidifier in the storage area if necessary.
Temperature Control: Extreme temperatures can cause metal to expand and contract, which might lead to cracking or peeling of the paint. Try to store oil cans in a location with a stable, moderate temperature.

Display and Storage

Upright Position: Always store oil cans in an upright position to avoid any leakage and to maintain the shape of the can. If displayed on shelves, ensure they are stable and not overcrowded.
Sunlight: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade and damage the paint. If displaying in a lit area, consider using UV-filtering glass or indirect lighting to minimize exposure.
Handling: When handling oil cans, it’s advisable to wear gloves to prevent oils from your skin from contributing to corrosion. This also helps avoid leaving fingerprints, which can be acidic and promote rusting.

Documentation and Repair

Documentation: Keep a record of each can’s condition when you acquire it, including photos and notes on any unique marks or damage. This helps in managing your collection and planning for any conservation work.
Professional Restoration: For valuable or highly damaged oil cans, consider consulting a professional conservator who specializes in metal and paint restoration. They can provide services that maintain the integrity of the original materials while restoring the appearance.

By following these maintenance and care tips, collectors can ensure that their vintage oil cans remain in excellent condition, preserving both their market value and their historical significance.

FAQ's

What makes a vintage oil can valuable?

The value of a vintage oil can is determined by its rarity, condition, brand, historical significance, and the appeal of its artwork. Cans from defunct companies, those with unique shapes, or those that retain original colors and logos without significant rust or damage tend to be more valuable.

How can I tell if my oil can is authentic and vintage?

Authentic vintage oil cans often show signs of age such as patina, appropriate wear, and sometimes, residual oil smell. Check for manufacturer’s marks, dated advertisements, and verify the can’s design against historical records from the brand.

How should I clean a vintage oil can without damaging it?

Clean gently using a soft cloth slightly dampened with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive materials and harsh chemicals. For rust removal, use fine steel wool lightly to preserve the underlying paint.

Can I restore a faded or damaged vintage oil can?

Yes, restoration is possible but should be approached with caution. For high-value cans, it’s advisable to consult a professional conservator who specializes in metal and artworks to ensure the restoration process does not decrease the item’s value.

How do I store vintage oil cans properly?

Store oil cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keep them upright and do not stack heavy items on top of them to avoid dents and scratches.

What are some popular brands of vintage oil cans that collectors look for?

Popular brands include Texaco, Shell, Mobil, Standard Oil, and Gulf. Cans from smaller, regional companies can also be highly prized if they are rare.

Is there a guide or resource for identifying vintage oil cans?

Yes, there are reference books and online databases that catalog vintage oil cans, providing details on their history, brand markings, and visual guides to identify periods and styles.

What should I do if I find an old oil can that still contains oil?

Handle with care to prevent spills and potential hazards. If you plan to empty the can, follow local regulations for disposal of old oil. If keeping the contents as part of its collectible value, ensure the can is sealed and stored upright.

How can I accurately appraise a vintage oil can?

For an accurate appraisal, consult with an expert here at the antique sign guy. We specialize in in antique automotive memorabilia. Providing detailed photos and descriptions to online forums dedicated to vintage collectibles can also yield useful preliminary valuations.

Here is a comprehensive list of oil companies based outside California known for producing rare and highly valued oil cans across various sizes, including quart, 1 gallon, 3 gallon, and 5 gallon sizes. This list features companies from various states across the U.S., highlighting their distinct branding and historical significance:

· Amalie Oil Company – Based in Pennsylvania, Amalie is recognized for its high-quality motor oils. The company’s vintage cans are sought after for their distinctive green and white branding.

· American Refining Group – Based in Pennsylvania, this company’s historical oil cans, under its earlier branding as Bradford Oil, hold a special place in oil history due to their age and the unique designs featured.

· Amoco (American Oil Company) – Based in Chicago, Illinois, Amoco is known for its torch logo and white and red color scheme. Their vintage oil cans are highly collectible, particularly those with earlier branding.

· Arco (Atlantic Richfield Company) – Originally based in Pennsylvania and later moving its operations to Los Angeles (outside of our initial California focus), Arco’s oil cans are valued for their bold graphics and the company’s significant role in U.S. energy development.

· Ashland Oil – Based in Kentucky, Ashland Oil’s cans are recognized for their bright branding and the company’s significant role in the development of petroleum products in the southern and midwestern U.S.

· Atlantic Refining Company – Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Atlantic oil cans are known for their distinctive logo and are prized for their design and rarity, especially older examples.

· Atlas Oil Company – Based in Michigan, Atlas Oil’s vintage cans are valued for their aesthetic appeal and connection to the regional industrial history in the Midwest.

· Boron Oil Company – Based in Ohio, Boron’s oil cans are recognizable by their bold graphic designs and are valued for their visual appeal and the company’s regional significance.

· Boron Oil Company – Based in Pennsylvania, Boron Oil Company’s vintage cans are recognized for their striking color schemes and the company’s regional impact in the northeastern U.S.

· Carter Oil Company – Originating in Oklahoma, Carter Oil Company is notable for its early contributions to the U.S. oil industry, with its oil cans highly prized for their historical value and unique branding.

· Champion Oil Company – Based in Missouri, Champion Oil’s cans are sought after for their distinctive branding and connection to American automotive culture.

· Champlin Oil – Based in Enid, Oklahoma, Champlin oil cans are collectible due to their regional distribution and the unique aesthetics of their branding.

· Chevron – Originally part of the Standard Oil conglomerate and based in San Ramon, Texas, Chevron oil cans are sought after for their historical connection and classic logo, which has evolved over the years.

· CITGO Petroleum Corporation – While CITGO is well-known on a national scale today, vintage CITGO oil cans, especially those from its earlier days when it was a subsidiary of Cities Service Company, are valued for their historical and aesthetic appeal.

· Cities Service (Citgo) – Originally based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Cities Service cans are collectible due to their green color scheme and the “cloverleaf” logo. The brand later became known as Citgo.

· Clark Oil – Operating primarily in the Midwest, Clark Oil’s vintage cans are notable for their stark, simple branding and regional significance.

· Coastal Corporation – Based in Texas, Coastal’s oil cans are less common and sought after due to their rarity and the company’s significant operations in the natural gas and petroleum sectors.

· Coastal States Gas Producing Company – Based in Texas, Coastal States’ vintage oil cans are relatively rare and collectible due to the company’s primarily gas-focused operations, making their oil-related products less common.

· Conoco (Continental Oil Company) – Based in Ponca City, Oklahoma, Conoco oil cans are sought after for their distinctive red triangle logoThese cans come in various sizes and are known for their bright colors and historical value.

· Continental Emsco – Located in Texas, Continental Emsco is traditionally known for its equipment for oilfields, but their oil-related products, including cans, are also collectible due to the company’s significance in the oilfield services sector.

· Continental Oil and Transportation Co- Known as Conoco, this company’s earlier cans, often marked with their original logos and designs from the early th century, are highly prized by collectors.

· Co-op – Based in various states through regional cooperatives, Co-op oil cans are unique for their connection to agricultural service cooperatives, appealing to collectors interested in agricultural and rural America’s history.

· Cross Country Oil – Operating out of various Midwestern states, Cross Country oil cans are valued for their rarity and distinctive regional branding, often featuring Americana themes.

· Crown Central Petroleum – Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Crown oil cans are collected for their striking logo and the company’s long-standing presence in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.

· Deep Rock Oil Corporation – Located in Oklahoma, Deep Rock’s oil cans are known for their distinctive logo and are prized by collectors for both their design and the company’s interesting history in the oil industry.

· Derby Oil Company – Based in Kansas, Derby Oil’s collectible cans are often noted for their distinctive logo featuring a horse and jockey, appealing particularly to collectors interested in Americana themes.

· Diamond Shamrock – Based in Texas, Diamond Shamrock oil cans are desirable due to the company’s history and merger activities that make early cans rare.

· Eagle Petroleum Company – Based in Texas, Eagle Petroleum’s oil cans are valued for their unique eagle logo and the company’s historical significance in the Texas oil boom.

· Empire Refining Company – Based in New York, Empire’s oil cans are collectible due to their historic value and the company’s significant role in the northeastern U.S. petroleum market.

· Farm Oyl – Specializing in agricultural lubricants, Farm Oyl’s products, particularly those from Iowa, are sought after for their niche market appeal and distinctive, often rustic branding.

· Fina Oil and Chemical Company – Originating in Texas, Fina’s oil cans are sought after for their bright blue and red colors and distinctive pegasus logo, similar but distinct from Mobil’s.

· Flying J – Based in Utah, Flying J is primarily known for its travel plazas, but their branded oil cans are collectible due to the company’s broad reach and popularity among travelers in the U.S.

· Freedom Oil Works – Operating out of Pennsylvania, Freedom Oil cans are rare and sought after due to the company’s smaller production scale and distinctive patriotic branding.

· Getty Oil – Founded by J. Paul Getty, this company, originally based in Los Angeles but operating primarily outside California, produced oil cans that are valued for their connection to one of America’s richest families and their iconic branding.

· Gulf Oil – With its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Gulf Oil produced some of the most recognizable cans with their orange disc logo. These cans are especially sought after when they feature the vintage logo from the early to mid-the century.

· Gulfstream Petroleum – Based in Florida, Gulfstream’s oil cans are rare and sought after due to the company’s smaller production scale and local distribution, making them a unique find for collectors.

· Hecla Oil Company – Based in Ohio, Hecla oil cans are valued for their unique branding and the rarity of the cans, which were produced by a less well-known company with a more limited distribution.

· Hess Corporation – Based in New York, Hess is well-known for its collectibles, including oil cans and toy trucks, especially around the holiday seasons. The oil cans are sought after for their branding and association with quality products.

· Hi-Grade Oil Company – Located in Utah, Hi-Grade’s oil cans are collectible for their regional significance and characteristic Western-themed branding.

· Holiday Companies – Based in Minnesota, Holiday oil cans are notable for their connection to the Holiday gas station chain, which adds a regional retail history aspect to their collectibility.

· Holiday Oil Company – Operating primarily in the Western United States, Holiday Oil Company’s cans are known for their vibrant colors and graphics, reflecting the festive spirit of the brand name.

· Humble Oil – Based in Texas, Humble Oil is known for its later transformation into Exxon. Their early oil cans, featuring the Humble brand, are especially collectible due to their historical significance.

· Husky Oil Company – Based in Wyoming, Husky Oil’s cans are desirable for their connection to the Rocky Mountain oil fields and their distinct logo featuring a husky dog.

· Imperial Oil – Although primarily operating in Canada, Imperial Oil had significant activities and distribution in the northern U.S. Their oil cans are collectible due to their rarity and the distinctive red and blue logo.

· Kerr-McGee Corporation – Based in Oklahoma, Kerr-McGee oil cans are notable for their involvement in oil and gas as well as other industries. These cans are of interest due to the company’s pioneering efforts in integrated energy operations.

· Keystone Oil Company – Originating from Pennsylvania, Keystone’s oil cans are sought after for their historical significance and the company’s long-standing presence in the early U.S. oil industry.

· Lion Oil – Originating in El Dorado, Arkansas, Lion Oil cans are collectible due to their distinctive logo featuring a lion, and their rarity, as the company was a smaller player in the industry.

· LubriGas – Operating out of Missouri, LubriGas oil cans are collectible due to their niche market presence and distinctively branded products focused on both automotive and industrial lubricants.

· Magnolia Petroleum Company – Originating in Texas, Magnolia oil cans are known for their iconic Magnolia logo. These cans are highly valued for their rarity and connection to the early oil industry in Texas.

· Majestic Oil Company – Based in Indiana, Majestic Oil produced cans that are now rare and collectible, featuring unique designs that appeal to collectors looking for Midwestern oil memorabilia.

· Mapco (Midwest Associated Producers Company) – With operations in several Midwest states, Mapco’s oil cans are valued for their regional significance and the relatively small scale of their distribution.

· Marathon Oil – Originally known as The Ohio Oil Company, Marathon’s cans are collected for their historic logos and color schemes. Based in Findlay, Ohio, these cans represent a significant part of the Midwest’s oil history.

· Marland Oil Company – Originally based in Oklahoma, Marland later became part of Conoco. Their early oil cans, bearing the Marland logo, are rare and highly sought after for their historical significance.

· Merit Oil Company – Operating out of Kentucky, Merit Oil’s cans are notable for their simple yet distinctive branding and the company’s regional impact.

· Mid-Continent Petroleum Corporation – Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this company’s oil cans, particularly those branded as “D-X,” are sought after for their unique branding and historical significance in the Midwestern oil sector.

· Murphy Oil USA – Located in Arkansas, Murphy Oil’s vintage cans are valuable due to the company’s significant role in the South’s petroleum market and their visually appealing design.

· Northern Refining Company – Based in Michigan, this company produced oil cans that are now rare collectibles, often valued for their unique branding and lesser-known status in the oil industry.

· Pace Petroleum – Located in Colorado, Pace Petroleum cans are collectible due to their regional significance and distinctive branding, often featuring mountain motifs.

· Pan-Am Petroleum Corporation – Originating from the southern U.S., Pan-Am’s vintage oil cans are valued for their bold branding and historical significance in the development of the Gulf Coast oil industry.

· Pennzoil – Founded in Pennsylvania, Pennzoil’s oil cans are recognized by their distinctive yellow background and simple text logo. These cans are a favorite among collectors due to the brand’s long-standing reputation and visibility.

· Petrolane Gas Service – Though primarily known for propane, Petrolane’s presence in the southern U.S. produced some oil cans that are rare finds due to the company’s focus on gas rather than oil products.

· Phillips – Based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Phillips is known for its shield logo and black and white color scheme. Their oil cans are popular among collectors for their iconic branding and association with Route .

· Pioneer Oil Company – Based in Indiana, Pioneer Oil cans are rare and highly valued, representing a smaller, regional operation with a strong local following.

· Pride Refining, Inc- Based in Texas, Pride Refining’s oil cans are sought after due to the company’s significant role in the southern U.S. oil market and their striking logo design.

· Pure Oil Company (Union Pure Oil) – Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Pure Oil’s cans are notable for their blue and white colors and the Pure logo. They are a staple in many oil can collections due to their appealing design and rarity.

· Pure Penn Oil Company – Located in Pennsylvania, Pure Penn is known for its high-quality motor oils. Their vintage cans are sought after for their rarity and distinctive branding.

· Quaker Chemical Corporation – Based in Pennsylvania, Quaker Chemical is known for specialty industrial lubricants. Their oil cans are distinctive for their branding and technical focus, appealing to collectors interested in industrial history.

· Quaker State – Based in Oil City, Pennsylvania, Quaker State oil cans are highly sought after due to their distinctive green color and longevity in the market.

· Red Crown Petroleum – Operating primarily in the Midwest, Red Crown is known for its vibrant red logo, and their cans are collectible due to their visual appeal and historic value.

· Reed Oil Company – A lesser-known company from Pennsylvania, their oil cans are rare and highly valued by collectors for their scarcity and distinctive local branding.

· Refiners Petroleum Company – Based in Ohio, Refiners Petroleum produced oil cans that are highly sought after for their unique branding and the rarity of items due to the smaller scale of operation.

· Regal Petroleum – Based in Michigan, Regal Petroleum’s oil cans are prized for their rarity and distinctive royal-themed branding, making them unique among U.S. oil company products.

· Rock Island Oil and Refining Company – Based in Kansas, Rock Island oil cans are known for their unique branding and are highly collectible, especially among those focusing on Midwestern oil companies.

· Rocket Oil Company – Based in Georgia, Rocket Oil’s cans are collectible for their bold graphics and the novelty of their space-themed branding, reflecting the mid-th-century fascination with space exploration.

· Royal Triton Oil – A brand under Union Oil of California, but distributed widely outside of California as well, Royal Triton oil cans are recognized for their purple color and distinctive mermaid logo. These cans are particularly valued for their vibrant design and rarity.

· Shell Oil Company – Although Shell is an international company, its U.S. operations based in Houston, Texas, have produced some highly collectible oil cans, especially those with vintage branding from the early the century.

· Sinclair Oil Corporation – Headquartered in Sinclair, Wyoming, Sinclair is famous for its green dinosaur logo. Their oil cans are iconic and highly collectible, especially those featuring the dinosaur.

· Sinclair Refining Company – Adding to Sinclair’s earlier mention, their early oil cans with regional branding from the Midwest are particularly sought after due to their dinosaur logo and the company’s significant advertising campaigns.

· Skelly Oil Company – Adding to its earlier mention, Skelly, headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is renowned for its unique logo and art deco style on its oil cans, making them highly prized among collectors.

· Skelly Oil Company – Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Skelly oil cans are known for their unique logo and color scheme. These cans are less common, making them more valuable to collectors.

· Socony (Standard Oil Company of New York) – Later known as Mobil, Socony produced cans that are particularly valued when they feature the early Socony branding with the red Pegasus.

· Sohio (Standard Oil of Ohio) – Sohio is well-known for its connection to the larger Standard Oil conglomerate and its distinctive blue and white branding. Sohio cans are highly collectible, especially among those interested in the history of Standard Oil.

· Spur Oil Company – Originating from Tennessee, Spur oil cans are known for their unique logo featuring a cowboy spur, appealing to collectors with an interest in oil companies that incorporate regional cultural symbols.

· Standard Oil (Esso, Exxon) – Based in New Jersey, Standard Oil’s oil cans, particularly those branded as Esso or Exxon, are a major draw for collectors due to their historic significance and wide range of designs over the years.

· Stanolind Oil and Gas Company – Also known as Standard Oil of Indiana, their oil cans are collected for their distinctive branding and importance in the development of the Midwestern and Northern U.S. oil industries.

· Star Petroleum – Located in Louisiana, Star Petroleum’s oil cans are notable for their distinctive star logo and their focus on the southern U.S. oil market.

· Sun Oil Company (Sunoco) – Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Sunoco’s oil cans are known for their bright blue color and the arrow logo. These cans are prized for their aesthetic appeal and brand recognition.

· Sunland Refining Corporation – Based in Louisiana, Sunland’s oil cans are collectible mainly due to the regional significance of the company in the Gulf Coast oil industry.

· Sunray DX Oil Company – Also based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Sunray DX is known for its bright and attractive branding. Collectors value these cans for their colorful designs and the company’s history of innovations in the oil industry.

· Super America – Originally based in Minnesota, Super America’s oil cans are collectible for their connection to the regional gas station chain, which adds a retail history aspect to their collectibility.

· Texaco – Based in Beaumont, Texas, Texaco cans are among the most iconic with their star logo and black, red, and white color scheme. These cans are a favorite in collections due to their widespread recognition and historical importance.

· The Gargoyle Oil Company – Based in New York, known for its specialized lubricants for the automotive industry, their oil cans are prized for the distinctive gargoyle graphics and early association with Mobil.

· The Texas Company (Texaco) – Also known as Texaco, these cans are similar to those listed above but are included for their specific historical variants and regional distributions.

· Trackside Petroleum – With roots in Indiana, Trackside is known for its involvement in motor sports and its highly thematic and visually appealing oil cans that resonate with racing enthusiasts.

· U.S. Oil & Refining Co- Based in Washington state, this company’s oil cans are rare due to its smaller scale of operation and regional focus, making them sought after by collectors looking for unique pieces.

· Valvoline – Founded in Binghamton, New York, and later moving to Kentucky, Valvoline oil cans are a staple in oil can collections, notable for their long history and the brand’s ongoing presence in the automotive industry.

· Warren Petroleum Corporation – Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Warren Petroleum’s oil cans are rare and sought after due to the company’s specialized production of liquefied petroleum gas.

· White Rose – As a Canadian oil company with distribution points in the northern U.S., White Rose oil cans feature distinctive graphics and colors, making them a favorite among collectors looking for international but regionally available brands.

· Wolf’s Head Oil – Based in Pennsylvania, Wolf’s Head oil cans are prized for their striking logo and red and white color scheme. These cans are collectible due to the brand’s reputation for quality and the appealing design of their packaging.

· Yukon Refining Company – Based in Oklahoma, Yukon Refining’s oil cans are rare and valued for their unique Western-themed branding and the company’s smaller scale of operations.