Antique trade signs are a very desirable and displayable items that were originally made to advertise a business.  Many have a wonderful patina as they aged outside the shop or business for many years.  Apothecary signs, as well as signs from the offices of doctors and dentists are especially collectible.   Old tavern or pub signs are sought after too.  While some are three dimensional figures carved from wood, others are painted wooden boards or made from sheet metal.  Check out the antique duck decoys page and antique stoneware page.