This rare, visually commanding, circa-1940s “DRUGS” illuminated channel letter sign is an outstanding example of midcentury American industrial design. Approximately 140″ W × 32″ H × 8 D Fabricated in porcelain enamel faces baked onto steel (premium midcentury sign material) with bold channel letter construction and neon illumination, the sign commands attention with its monumental scale and authentic period craftsmanship. Its exceptional provenance distinguishes it further: acquired in the 1970s by Marvin Lipofsky (1938- 2016), the pioneering American Studio Glass artist and a founder of the California glass movement, the sign stood for decades as a documented fixture within Lipofsky’s Berkeley, California, studio. The neon elements were professionally restored in 2017 while with the Lipofsky estate, and again comprehensively restored in July 2025 by the current owner prior to sale, ensuring full working order and reliability for the next custodian. While the neon is fully functional, the steel housing retains its authentic, unrestored industrial character and surface wear, consistent with its age and history. This unique object transcends typical vintage memorabilia, presenting as a significant work of sculptural light that offers broad crossover appeal for discerning collectors of 20th-century design, Pop Art, Americana, industrial signage, porcelain enamel advertising, and American Studio Glass. Please keep offers reasonable and comments respectful. Lowball offers and rude or disrespectful comments will be ignored, and offenders will be blocked and reported. Thank you for understanding and keeping things courteous.
