The Motels Promotional Ashtray

An original promotional glass ashtray produced for The Motels, featuring the band’s distinctive logo in red alongside their classic lips motif. Promotional items such as this were typically distributed to record labels, radio stations, venues or industry contacts, making them far less common than standard commercial merchandise.

Formed in Los Angeles in the 1970s and fronted by Martha Davis, The Motels became one of the defining American new wave bands of the early 1980s, scoring hits including "Only the Lonely," "Suddenly Last Summer" and "Take the L." Promotional memorabilia from the band’s peak years remains increasingly sought after by collectors of new wave and music industry ephemera.

This ashtray comes directly from the personal collection of Mary Cobra (Mary Ramirez), founding guitarist of The Detroit Cobras, whose archive reflects a lifelong appreciation for rock and alternative music.

Key Details & Collectability

• Original promotional glass ashtray for The Motels.
• Features the band’s logo and signature lips artwork.
• Produced as a promotional item rather than standard retail merchandise.
• From the personal collection of Mary Cobra (Mary Ramirez) of The Detroit Cobras.
• A distinctive piece of new wave memorabilia with strong appeal to collectors of vintage music promotional items.