Antique Saddles & Collectible Value
October 30, 2008 by Saddle Sense
Filed under General Saddle Topics, Saddle Buying, Saddle Types
Many, many people email us asking if we can help them identify the maker of their antique saddle and determine it’s value. Unfortunately we don’t have the resources to provide that service. What we can, and do, tell folks is that there are tons of antique saddles out there and very few have any collector value.
This month’s issue (November 2008) of Western Horseman, confirms our comments in a short feature called “Decorative vs. Collectible Value.”
Traditional Cowboy Arts Association saddlemaker and antique-gear expert Chuck Stormes, says that thousands of saddles from the early 1900′s still survive, but most are of little collectible value.
“A famous maker, historically important owner, or an outstanding example of craftsmanship is what makes a saddle a collectible piece,” he explains, adding that an old saddle will retain more value if it’s in original condition and with all the original parts.”
While this information may be disappointing to some, many others understand that antique western saddles are pieces of art and Americana that have an inherent value for the owner. Just enjoy the wonderful craftsmanship and imagine the life they’ve lived.
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I have Langley saddle in excellant condition all orginal the ties are still coiled. I do not have any idea what this is worth, I would be curious if you could help me it has not been used hardley at all sitting inside a decoration. Thanks it also has the initals AEW stamped into the cantle
My mother has a gene Autry rodeo saddle that was his. It is antique and was made by Don Cunningham. We are trying to find out what it is worth. She does have a letter from Autry’s wife stated that was Gene’s saddle. Do you know what it would be worth? Karen
I am looking for someone to help me Identifie a saddle. could any one help me?? Sorry if this is not a site to put this on!!
I have a 2003 National Finals Rodeo Average champion saddle Made by Dale Chavez. This saddle has alot of silver on it and nice stamping. The saddle has never been ridden. I would like to see how much it is worth. Will the value increase? Thanks, Cody
i have an old bear trap saddle with the makers name of sam shepler.wichita ks on it but i can’t find any information on it anywhere and was wondering if you could give me any info. on it. thanks Scott
Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to respond to requests from folks researching specific saddles, saddle makers, or brands.
There have been thousands of makers through the years and very little information is available on any but the most famous brands (i.e. Heiser, Hamley, Porter, etc) We recommend searching the Internet, or you’ll also find a limited amount of information about a finite number of saddle makers in the book, Old Cowboy Saddles and Spurs, Seventh Edition by Gretchen and Mike Graham, available from Amazon.