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 and with "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.
It wouldn't be a proper Festivus celebration without a nod to the show that started it all. We’ve included a brief 2-second clip of Jonathan Wolff's iconic Seinfeld theme—because you simply can’t have an Airing of Grievances without that legendary bass line.
Donley Auction Services
https://DonleyAuctions.com
815-923-7000
Info@DonleyAuctions.com
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 that nearly gave a master restorer a heart attack. If you’re a collector, a consignor, or just love a good story, you won’t want to miss this one.
Episode Highlights:
[00:46] Shauna’s Double Life: Randy kicks things off sharing updates on his daughter Shauna, who isn’t just a top Chicago realtor—she’s also a professional stuntwoman currently working on the set of Chicago Fire.
[01:53] Firearm Market Trends: A recap of last Saturday’s firearm auction reveals a surprising trend: pistols and handguns are commanding higher prices and selling faster than long guns, while hunting guns saw an unexpected dip despite the season.
[02:50] March Military Auction Call: The team is already gearing up for the next big gun and military auction in March. Now is the time to consign ammo, reloading gear, and camping equipment.
[03:22] Roadshow at the Card Show: Ryan is heading to the Breaktime Sports Card Show in Lake Zurich/Kildeer this weekend. He shows off an autographed screen-used placard from the movie Rudy and invites locals to bring cards, coins, and jewelry for appraisal.
[05:08] The Gun Room Makeover: Construction is underway! The old "dish room" is being transformed into a high-security, professional gun vault with upgraded lighting to better inspect serial numbers and merchandise.
[07:08] Trench Art Treasures: Joey O’Brien previews a fascinating consignment of theater-made trench art, featuring a P-38 and a Spitfire model crafted from 50-caliber bullets and artillery shells, coming up in the February Banister auction.
[08:25] The Legend of Randall Knives: A pristine collection of Randall knives has just been consigned. Randy touches on the history of these blades, designed in WWII and popularized by Special Forces in Vietnam, noting how rare it is for collectors to let them go.
[09:05] Cowboy & Indian Auction Prep: The team is braving the cold for a road trip to Iowa to pick up a major collection of Native American artifacts for the next Cowboy and Indian auction.
[10:00] Holiday Consignment Wishlist: While Susan suggests downsizing, Randy wants "BIG" items for 2026—biplanes, tanks, cannons, and carnival rides.
[12:00] Rock Star Guest: Louie Depos surprises the studio! Fresh off a two-year tour with the band Styx, he stops by to catch up and chat about the upcoming tour with Chicago.
[13:30] Master of Restoration: Randy praises Louie’s other career as a master antique restorer, crediting him with bringing some of the auction house’s most complex projects back to life.
[14:50] The "Holy Grail" Phonograph: The group gathers around a rare tinfoil phonograph from the upcoming Kenburg collection. It’s a dream machine for collectors, set to hit the block in July.
[15:20] Phonograph Show Schedule Shakeup: Important news for phonograph collectors: The annual show is moving from June to July to finally avoid conflicts with Father’s Day and graduations (a win for the wives!).
[16:15] The Great Phonograph Prank: The team recounts a legendary prank they pulled on Louie, involving a fake replica of a rare gold-leaf "Vernis Martin" Victrola and a staged "accident" that left Louie speechless.
Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.
Let us put our experience to work for you.
Donley Auction Services
https://DonleyAuctions.com
815-923-7000
Info@DonleyAuctions.com
8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)
Union, IL 60180
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 the reveal of the incredible Frank Rider Collection—packed with orchestrions, arcade machines, and rare coin-ops—this episode delivers. Watch as the team literally tears down walls to bring these hidden treasures to market!
Episode Highlights
[00:20] – The NYC Holiday Recap: Randy and Susan kick things off with stories from their Thanksgiving trip to New York, sharing the joy of visiting family and soaking in the city's festive atmosphere.
[01:14] – Rockettes Review: A glowing review of the 100th Anniversary Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Spoiler alert: It features live camels!
[03:33] – Celebrity Sighting: A chance encounter with Randy Fenoli from Say Yes to the Dress leads to a fun selfie and some wedding dress banter.
[04:18] – A Somber Stop: The pair shares their emotional and highly recommended experience visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
[06:07] – Macy's Parade Reality: The truth about trying to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade in person versus the comfort of the hotel room (though they did catch a glimpse of Santa!).
[07:46] – The Frank Rider Collection: Shifting gears to business, the team heads to Wabash, Indiana, to retrieve a legendary collection of mechanical music and arcade machines amassed over 45 years.
[09:19] – Basement Treasures: A first look at rare finds still in the basement, including a pristine 1940s Chicago Coin Basketball game.
[11:53] – The Extraction Challenge: The collection was literally sealed inside! Watch the team demolish a false wall to free the massive orchestrions and cabinets.
[16:10] – Heavy Hauling: Back in Illinois, the team battles the cold to unload the trucks, with a special shoutout to the reliable fleet at Penske for making the logistics possible.
[17:53] – The Reveal: Randy walks through the newly unloaded haul, highlighting a stunning oak Mills Violano and a rare Calliaphone from Wabash.
[18:48] – Arcade Oddities: A look at some quirky coin-ops, including a "Character Reading" machine for women and a vintage "Marriage License Bureau."
[21:08] – Unique Automata: The episode wraps up with a peek at the "Feed Bill" bean bag game and a fascinating wooden automaton figure designed to crank a street organ.
Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/jHY80CsmJCs
Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.
Let us put our experience to work for you.
Donley Auction Services
815-923-7000
8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)
Union, IL 60180
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 highlights.
Episode Highlights:
The Changing Face of Collecting [01:41]: Randy opens with a crucial market insight—the "age of collectors" is shifting. As the older generation passes, a flood of merchandise is hitting the market. It’s a "double-edged sword" [01:58]: prices for middle-of-the-road items are dropping (great for buyers!), while the "best of the best" rare items continue to hold their value.
Native American Auction Success [04:09]: The recent auction saw solid results, with the "sweet spot" for pricing falling in the mid-to-high hundreds. A standout item, a delicate Corn Husk Bag, hammered down at $475 [04:29].
The Passenger Pigeon & The Photo Ark [05:13]: The star of the show! A rare taxidermy Passenger Pigeon sold for a shocking price to a very special buyer—Joel Sartore, a National Geographic photographer. Joel joins the show [06:05] to discuss his Photo Ark project and his mission to document endangered species. He shares the tragic history of the pigeon (extinct since 1914) and discusses the science of "de-extinction."
Wild West Town Relics [11:18]: Nostalgia sold well, with souvenirs from the Wild West Town finding new homes. A unique Calendar Clock from a Lincoln display was a crowd favorite—set to the exact day and time of Lincoln's assassination [11:46].
Franklin, TN Trip [12:21]: The team is busy prepping rare items (and strictly enforcing a "Do Not Touch" policy!) for Mike and John's upcoming trip to the Civil War Show in Franklin, Tennessee.
Furniture & General Antiques [13:03]: Most of the recent furniture collection found a home with a bulk buyer. Any remaining pieces are heading to the General Antiques "Clearance" Auction on Dec 11th [13:42]—a perfect chance for bargain hunters to snag a deal.
The Power of Provenance [13:50]: Randy drops a golden nugget of advice: Provenance is profit. A story without documentation is just a rumor. He urges collectors to write down family histories and get them notarized to add hundreds or thousands of dollars in value to their items.
The Bison Opportunity [16:29]: A massive taxidermy Bison didn't sell and is still available for a steal at $3,500. Randy pitches it as the perfect centerpiece for a museum or a bold bar display.
Razor Blades & Ammo [17:17]: Mark your calendars for two unique upcoming sales: an Online-Only Razor Blade Display Auction on Dec 4 and a Firearms & Ammunition Auction on Dec 13 [19:02] loaded with tons of ammo.
D-Day History Revealed [20:07]: The show closes with a spine-tingling "Show & Tell" featuring the John Banister Collection (coming Feb 7). The team showcases top-secret D-Day paperwork, including demolition plans and sailing orders from May 1944. These rare documents, which lives depended on, offer a nerdy and deeply moving glimpse into Operation Overlord [20:49].
Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/47dldkOGGLA
Rare Relics & Wild West Nostalgia: Inside the Donley Auctions "Cowboys & Indians" EventWelcome 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 the items crossing the block. Whether you’re hunting for museum-quality history or just love a good story, this episode is a goldmine.Show Highlights:The "New" Susan: The episode kicks off with a fun reveal of Susan’s new brunette look, sparking a debate on whether she should stick to blonde or embrace the dark side.Auction Overview: Randy introduces the massive "Cowboys & Indians" catalog, featuring a unique blend of Native American artifacts, Wild West Town memorabilia, and unexpected high-end furniture.Turquoise Trends: A spotlight on a dazzling jewelry cabinet filled with sterling silver and turquoise, noting its enduring popularity from the 1980s to today.Mission Oak Collection: A look at a pristine, single-owner collection of Arts and Crafts furniture (featuring makers like Limbert and Stickley) from Elgin, IL—perfect for a rugged ranch aesthetic.A Quirky Centerpiece: The team jokes about using one of the several taxidermy turkeys as a unique Thanksgiving table centerpiece.Dating Native Baskets: An expert tip on inspecting Native American baskets: counting the number of colors used in the weave to determine age and authenticity.1860s Blacksmith Sign: Randy shows off a rare trade sign that hung for 50 years at the Donley’s Wild West Town blacksmith shop.Mapping the Frontier: A fascinating look at surveying equipment from the 1820s and 30s, used to map the open ranges of the early United States.The Chicago Stockyards Coat: The gritty history behind a Buffalo coat worn not on the range, but by a worker braving the cold at the historic Chicago Stockyards.Horn Furniture Teaser: A sneak peek at a genuine horn chair that arrived too late for this sale but will headline the next "Wild West Part 2" auction.Marengo’s "Romance of a Century": Randy shares a 1930s poster depicting a Wild West show in Marengo, IL, revealing an eerie historical coincidence that predated Donley’s own park.Rough Rider Uniform: A museum-grade highlight: the jacket and hat of a Hampshire, IL soldier who charged up San Juan Hill with Teddy Roosevelt’s Company D.The Extinct Passenger Pigeon: A rare taxidermy specimen of the passenger pigeon, sparking a discussion on the bird's migratory history and tragic extinction.Wild West Town Tour: Randy walks the grounds of the now-closed theme park with former employee Joey O’Brien, reminiscing about the stunt shows and the old "Territorial Jail."Gold Mine Secrets: Joey shares heartwarming memories of working the Gold Mine attraction and "salting" the water with fool's gold to delight children.The Historic Train: A mention that the park’s famous train—originally from the Brookfield Zoo and the Wagon Wheel Resort—is currently available for purchase.Roadshow Updates: The team promotes their appearance at the Sports Spectacular in Rosemont to accept consignments.Maintenance Shoutouts: A final nod to the crew keeping the facilities running, including "Joe Cool/Heat" installing furnaces and D5 Iron Works.Catch the full episode to see these items in detail and hear the rest of Randy's stories!Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions.
Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
The excitement is building at Donley Auctions! Join hosts Randy and Susan Donley for a special preview of their massive October Fall Classic event. The showroom is buzzing as the team prepares for a spectacular three-day auction. Randy’s motto for the prep? "What it is is what it is!" This is your insider's look at the incredible, rare, and wonderfully eclectic items going up on the block. Get ready to be amazed!
Show Highlights:
Kicking Off Outdoors: The tour starts outside with impressive yard art, including a pair of entry lions, a heavy bronze seesaw, and a full-size horse.
Behind the Scenes: Get a peek at the setup, where Michelle is hard at work arranging a huge collection of sports memorabilia for the display cases.
A Story of Value: Randy shares a fascinating story about ticker tape machines, recalling a time when his father bought one for $25 from a massive scrap pile. Today, they can fetch $10,000-$15,000!
Auction Details: The items are color-coded for the auction days: green tickets for Thursday, hot pink for Friday, and 3000-series numbers for Saturday.
Featured Treasures: The camera pans to a stunning, dual-signed Tiffany lamp and a rare set of Retro 123 model Tucker cars—only 49 were made, matching the real cars.
Classic Cars: Two beautiful Cadillacs are up for sale: a 1937 convertible and a 1931 convertible.
Eclectic Thursday: Thursday’s auction is a treasure trove for all collectors, with items ranging from door stops and Pepsi memorabilia to antique busts of Lincoln and Shakespeare removed from a high school.
Bright Lights & Fine Furnishings: The collection includes beautiful neon signs (Packard, Rolling Stone lips), high-quality furniture, and a stunning leaded window reportedly from the Astor estate.
Games & Art: Don’t miss the "holy grail" of pool tables—the Monarch—unique pottery by artist "Billy Joe Craven," and two "big six" gambling wheels.
Carousel Corner: A whimsical collection of carousel animals is featured, including a stag, a giraffe in original park paint, a rare rooster, and a beautifully stripped horse.
Toys & Nostalgia: The toy section is packed, with a reminder that original boxes are often as valuable as the toys themselves!
A Walk Down the Aisle: The tour winds past terracotta lion's heads, vintage speakers, and an interesting 1950s German driver's training vehicle.
The McDonald's Story: A vintage "Multimixer" sparks the story of how Ray Kroc discovered the McDonald brothers, who were ordering machine after machine.
Bikes & Bands: Highlights include an all-original Schwinn Stingray bike and an amazing collection of Grateful Dead items—art, rare posters, and even Jerry Garcia's registered pistol!
Heavy Metal: Two impressive architectural pieces are shown: an industrial parts cabinet and a massive, ornate newel post from a Chicago staircase.
Slots & More Slots: "Slot Machine Row" features 84 machines, including extremely rare models. This area also has mechanical banks and a rare Thomas Edison tinfoil phonograph from 1877.
The Back Room: Just when you think you’ve seen it all, the back room reveals a 1931 Cadillac, a 1959 T-Bird "time capsule" with suicide doors, a stagecoach, pinball machines, and more.
Ryan's Saturday Preview: Ryan jumps in to highlight Saturday's lots, including high-end jewelry (Rolex, Patek Philippe), gold, and sports memorabilia like a ball signed by Muhammad Ali, OJ Simpson, and Walter Payton.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
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 the massive October auction. The main event is Randy's crucial conversation with David Wolf, the new promoter of the legendary Chicagoland Coin-Op Show, covering the future of the hobby and the show's exciting move to a new venue.
On the Road to the Indie Ad Show: Randy heads to Indiana to promote the upcoming Donley Auctions Fall Classic (October 23rd-25th) and the coinciding Advertising and Slot Show, sharing footage and interviews from this key industry event.
Showroom Sneak Peek: Back at the auction house, Mike and Susan showcase a showroom packed with incredible new arrivals for the October auction. Highlights include a beautifully restored Eco Islander tire inflator (originally the "Economy Air Meter") and a unique bar repurposed from a vintage Sun diagnostic testing unit. A quick tour reveals the auction's massive scale, filled with advertising signs, slot machines, a mutoscope, an antique high-wheel bicycle, and more, with new items being added to the online catalog daily.
Randy Interviews David Wolf: Randy sits down with David Wolf, a long-time collector and new co-promoter of the Chicagoland Coin-Op Show. They discuss the enduring strength of the advertising market compared to other antiques, noting a unique "sliver of time" where major collections are becoming available as original collectors age. They also touch on the fallacy of "dealer day," assuring the public that the best items are still available when the doors open.
The Rebirth of the Chicagoland Coin-Op Show: The big news is the show's move to the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. David explains this move creates a superior, all-in-one experience for dealers and attendees. The new venue offers a fantastic room rate ($174/night), is just 10 minutes from O'Hare Airport, and features better dates to avoid bad weather, attracting even more dealers from across the country.
Donley Auctions' Nighttime Event: Donley Auctions will again host the official Friday night entertainment for the show. All attendees are invited to the Donley Auctions gallery—now an easy 30-minute drive from the new venue—for a special auction complete with complimentary dinner and drinks. Randy and David emphasize the importance of the entire community working together to support and promote these events to keep the hobby strong.
Donley Auction Services
https://DonleyAuctions.com
815-923-7000
Info@DonleyAuctions.com
8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)
Union, IL 60180
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.We travel nationwide!Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
Highlights from this episode:
This episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast provides a captivating look into the daily life of an auction house. Host Susan takes you on a tour, revealing new consignments and items being prepared for upcoming auctions, from a gigantic drugstore sign to a collection of vintage radios and a truly impressive sports memorabilia collection.
Welcome and Auction House Overview [00:35]: Susan introduces Donley Auctions, sharing their location and inviting viewers to check out their upcoming auction schedule.
Giant Drugstore Sign Arrival [01:36]: The team excitedly receives a massive drugstore sign, discussing the challenges of moving such a huge item.
Behind the Scenes with Randy and Mike [02:28]: Susan mentions that Randy and Mike are working on a special project in New York, with more details to come.
Auction Floor Transformation [02:57]: The "dance floor," a former banquet hall, is being cleared to make way for new consignments, including a collection of slot machines and radio consoles.
Vintage Radios and Consignment Call [04:13]: Susan showcases beautifully restored vintage radios that are now Bluetooth-compatible, and encourages viewers to consign similar items.
Call for New Team Members [05:33]: Donley Auctions is hiring for various positions, including researchers and shipping department staff, and Susan praises the current team.
Upcoming Firearms and Military Auction [06:10]: Details are shared about a September auction featuring firearms, ammunition, and military collectibles.
Ronald McDonald Shoes [07:12]: A unique find is presented: a pair of Ronald McDonald's shoes, complete with an autograph.
Slot Machine Collection [08:05]: A large collection of slot machines is previewed, with many more expected for the October Fall Classic.
Razor Blade Display Collection [08:28]: Susan describes a collection of 200 razor blade display cards from the 1920s-1950s that she personally organized.
License Plate Auction Announcement [10:53]: A future auction dedicated to license plates is announced, featuring a notable Illinois plate collection.
Call for Consignments [12:11]: Susan encourages viewers to find their own treasures to consign, sharing a story about a jukebox found in a garage.
Sports Memorabilia Highlights [13:16]: Ryan presents an impressive collection of sports memorabilia, including a top-rated Cubs baseball card set, a Babe Ruth photo, Dick Butkus's alumni ring, and a Michael Jackson-autographed basketball.
Trivia Question Reveal [18:27]: The identity of the bust from earlier in the episode is revealed to be Ulysses S. Grant.
Closing Remarks [18:53]: Susan concludes the episode by reminding viewers of the October Fall Classic and encouraging them to get in touch.
You can watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/u7WOnOkRoWY
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180
Highlights from this episode:A 1963 Chevy Corvette Sells for $67,500 [00:03]: The show opens with the exciting final moments of an auction for a 1963 Chevy Corvette convertible, which started with a bid of $25,000 and sold for an impressive $67,500.Standout Auction Items [03:30]: The hosts discuss other notable sales from the auction, including a vintage bowling game that sold for over $9,000 and an electricity shock machine that went for more than $10,000.Upcoming Auctions [07:36]: The team provides a preview of future auctions, including a razor blade display collection with over 200 items. They also highlight the October Fall Classic, which will feature a set of three vintage circus-themed Ford truck signs.Consignment Opportunities [16:32]: The hosts encourage listeners to consign their items for upcoming auctions, offering free, no-obligation opinions on the value of their items.Dutch Auction Company Guests [29:03]: The episode features guests from the Swiss auction house, Dutch Auction Company, who discuss their business and the upcoming Bill Nun collection auction.You can watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/avRBKA2olUQWelcome 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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
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 collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
In this episode, Randy and Susan Donley give us a grand tour of the Donley Auctions showroom, highlighting a spectacular array of items destined for their upcoming August, October, and November auctions. The episode provides an incredible look at everything from vintage arcade games to a stunning Tiffany stained-glass window, and even memorabilia from Donley's Wild West Town!
Here are some highlights from the tour:
A Vintage Bowling Alley Game: The tour kicks off with a look at a classic United bowling game, an early game that used hard rubber balls. This piece, perfect for a home game room, is set to be auctioned in the August Summer Classic.
Restored Games and Foosball Fun: Randy and Susan showcase several beautifully restored games, including a Fireball pinball machine and a vintage baseball game that brings back fond childhood memories. The video also shows a fun moment with the staff playing on a foosball table, another item up for auction.
The Mills Violanos Specialists: The Donleys introduce Terry and Brett Howout, a father-son team who are experts in restoring Mills Violanos, a rare type of automatic violin player. They discuss the historical significance of these machines and demonstrate the impressive restoration work they do.
Architectural Treasures: The tour moves past various unique items, including antique Nickelodeons, gambling equipment, and a set of magnificent doors that once adorned a mansion.
The Wild West Comes to Auction: Get a sneak peek into the upcoming "Cowboys and Indians" auction in November, which will feature items from Donley's Wild West Town, including a bar and back bar from the display, as well as a saddle and spurs that belonged to Ben Craven, a man who worked on cattle drives and at the Wild West Town.
Vintage Vending and Advertising: Viewers get to see a wide selection of vintage advertising pieces, including a rare Orange Crush sign, and a variety of vending machines, from classic Coca-Cola and Pepsi coolers to a unique milk vending machine.
From Snoop Dogg to Jukeboxes: The Donleys show off some quirky and classic collectibles, including a collection of large Snoop Dogg bobbleheads and a huge selection of jukeboxes, ranging from classic Wurlitzers and Seeburgs to modern models.
A Tiffany Stained Glass Window: One of the most breathtaking pieces is a massive 9-foot-tall Tiffany stained-glass window, which Randy and his brother Mike speculate may have come from a St. Louis hotel or the Vanderbilt mansion. This impressive architectural masterpiece is a highlight of the upcoming October Fall Classic auction.
To watch the full tour of the Donley Auctions showroom, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hct7ULUlZGE
Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley 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!
Exploring the vibrant world of auctions and high-end antiques? Welcome to the Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast! Dropping every Friday, Susan and Randy Donley give you an inside look at the thrilling finds and stories behind the items that pass through their auction house. Don't miss an episode—subscribe at DonleyAuctions.com/podcast and get ready to be amazed by the treasures that await!
Here are some highlights from the episode, "Are We That Old?" - Unfiltered Podcast #47:
Check out the full episode to hear the fascinating stories behind these amazing finds!
Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.
Let us put our experience to work for you.
Donley Auction Services
https://DonleyAuctions.com
815-923-7000
Info@DonleyAuctions.com
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!