sought after early 20th century american interior new york city subway station “no spitting” informational sign likely fabricated by the baltimore enamel & novelty co., baltimore, md. the single-sided subway sign is comprised of heavy gauge rolled iron with largely intact bold white lettering against a dark cobalt blue porcelain enameled finish. manufactured for the interborough rapid transit company around 1910-15. a multitude of closely spaced steel grommets are found along the sign edges. the grommets provide an even pressure on the ceramic and buffer it from screw or rivet damage. surface wear and minor porcelain loss evident. the interborough rapid transit company (irt) was the private operator of the original underground new york city subway line that opened in 1904, as well as earlier elevated railways and additional rapid transit lines in new york city. the irt was purchased by the city in june 1940. the first irt subway ran between city hall and 145th street at broadway, opening on october 27, 1904. founded on may 6, 1902, by august belmont, jr., the irt’s mission was to operate new york city’s initial underground rapid transit system after belmont’s and john b. mcdonald’s rapid transit construction company was awarded the rights to build the railway line in 1900, outbidding andrew onderdonk. the irt ceased to function as a privately-held company on june 12, 1940, when its properties and operations were acquired by the city of new york. the porcelain enameled sign measures 18 x 16 inches.