I am old but a newby to original sign collecting. I would like to be able to tell the difference between a real verses a fake Texaco and Mobil pump plate. I know if it is thin and has a newish shiny back it is a repro but what about the heavy porcelain type reproductions? Is there a tell-tell sign color of the back or mark to look out for. I am familiar with the 12 inch size fakes. And reading a lot on here the past several weeks. I am going to a sign/gas auction next week. Do the fakes have dates on them also? Any helpful information to make a intelligent bid is really appreciated.

Jim