LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Neon Museum has removed the Treasure Island Hotel & Casino pirate skull from its Neon Boneyard as part of an effort to preserve the sculpture.
The 32-foot-tall sculpture was lifted by crane and transported to YESCO (Young Electric Sign Company). It will undergo restoration there before returning to the Neon Museum.
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The skull is the only remaining one of two identical sculptures originally mounted on both sides of the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino pylon sign when the property opened in 1993.
The sculpture measures approximately 32 feet tall and 29 feet wide. The polychromatic molded fiberglass piece has three components: the skull, an earring and a bandana knot.
The property rebranded in 2003 and moved away from its original pirate theme. The sign was removed during a July 10, 2003, ceremony that featured pyrotechnics and fireworks. It was transported to the Neon Museum shortly afterward.
During the restoration, YESCO will perform fiberglass patching, stabilization and repainting. The repainting is intended to restore the skull’s original colors, which have faded over time.
Officials said the restoration reflects the Neon Museum’s ongoing commitment to preserving and celebrating Las Vegas history and to keeping the pirate skull part of the city’s cultural legacy for generations to come.
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