new member + interesting rare Bambino item(tobacco/baseball)

[kreso]

Hey everyone,
just joined the forum, I've never really been on any antique/collectibles forums before, always just looked at it as a weekend treasure hunt hobby. Anyways, did some google searching and I've been finding a lot of online communities and am very interested in all the conversation and hope i can share my knowledge and learn something from all of you as well. More likely I'll be the one to learn more as i'm only in my mid 20's and relatively younger than most collectors I meet, but I've been collecting tobacco and sporting collectibles for over a decade.

So saying all that I have a rare item I've only seen once before and I question its authenticity, hoping someone here might be able to shed some light.

Its a Bambino smoking tobacco sign.
you can see pictures here:
http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedi...sign-140116193

Anyways thanks for reading my intro, and if you have any info on the bambino sign I would appreciate it.

[Leon]

Welcome to the forum. Many, and probably most, items like that on ebay are fake or reproductions. I assume that one is too. The seller gives a return policy so that is a plus. Here is a similar one (different color) that is being sold as a reproduction..

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bambino-smok...item20d76c244a



.

[kreso]

I've seen that blue(new old stock) one many times before, mine appears to be an actual lithographed tin sign though, and it does show signs of age and discoloration. I just don't want to let it go if it is real, I've never got a definite answer on it either. Mine isn't the one in the link I posted that's the only other one I've seen, but its the exact same sign 100%. Just seen this one and mine. it would be a nice piece to have in the collection if it is real, being a Babe Ruth tobacco sign.

[Brian Weisner]

It's a "fantasy piece" that starting showing up at flea markets 8-10 years ago... I've never seen an actual advertising sign for the Bambino Tins and doubt any ever existed. Be well Brian

[Bocabirdman]

Originally Posted by Brian Weisner

It's a "fantasy piece" that starting showing up at flea markets 8-10 years ago... I've never seen an actual advertising sign for the Bambino Tins and doubt any ever existed. Be well Brian

Plus 1

[kreso]

Thanks for the speedy replies guys, I think I read somewhere as well that bambino tobacco never made any signs. Its too bad, it would be an awesome sign to have.

[ethicsprof]

you have your answers but wanted to offer you a welcome aboard the board!!
all the best,
barry

[the 'stache]

Welcome to the forum!