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Vaquero Mexican Silver Concho Headstall 1800-

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:25.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 3,500.00 USD
Vaquero Mexican Silver Concho Headstall 1800-
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The lot features an exceptional Vaqueros Mexican bridle with three silver conchas (conchos) of graduated size on each cheek strap. The piece dated to the early to mid-1800’s and is truly a museum quality headstall. The blacksmith forged iron bit shows an exquisite design and has later added silver coin spots with the rare, and Vaqueros indicative, linked chain over the horse’s poll. The large graduated conchas show a heavy stamped and engraved design and show later added coins in place of the original buttons holding the leather to the bit. At the end of the leather, serving as the connection to the linked chain band, are cast and worked clamped hands (a wonderful and unique addition). Provenance: From an important early cowboy history and Native American artifacts private collection in Billings, Montana. Additionally, the bit shows intricate construction with Mexican coin cheek pieces, brass cricket rollers, and a double-link chain. Overall, the set is in good condition, showing warm patina, and some slight cracking to the leather headstall. The bit alone measures 7" long, and 5 1/4" wide. The headstall shows six stamped silver conchos, each with a floral motif, the two largest conchos are backed with Mexican coins. A nearly identical style example can be found in the Bridles of the Americas Volume 1: Indian Silver by Ned & Jody Martin and Robert Bauver on page 10 and also on page 21. These authentic early Vaqueros headstalls are becoming increasingly rare and can command as much as $10,000 at auction.