Decorative Door Knocker Appraisal

Vintage Solid Brass Eagle Door Knocker

This is a substantial vintage door knocker featuring a classic American federal-style eagle motif. Crafted from heavy-duty cast brass, the item demonstrates a rich, aged patina with a dull golden hue that suggests a mid-20th-century origins. The central design features a spread-wing eagle perched atop a large, smooth oval plaque intended for custom engraving. Two small holes are visible beneath the eagle's wings for mounting screws. The mechanism consists of a thick, U-shaped swinging knocker attached to a hinged joint below the eagle's body, which makes contact with a separate circular brass striking plate at the base. Physically, it shows moderate surface wear consistent with outdoor use, including small pits, light oxidation, and minor scratches on the oval centerpiece. The casting detail on the eagle's feathers is of medium quality, indicating a mass-produced but durable architectural accessory from the Colonial Revival era. There are no visible maker's marks on the front surface, which is typical for this style of hardware.