Roping Appraisal

Siskiyou Cowboy Roping Steer Belt Buckle

This is a vintage, oval-shaped belt buckle, likely made of brass or a similar metal alloy given its aged, golden-brown patina. The front of the buckle features a highly detailed embossed design depicting a cowboy on horseback, mid-action, roping a steer. The craftsmanship of the embossed scene suggests a good level of detail, with visible texture and dimensionality in the figures and background. The perimeter of the buckle appears to have a raised border or edge. The reverse side of the buckle is visible in one of the images and shows a series of rectangular plaques or plates, two of which are clearly engraved. One reads "Siskiyou Buckle Co. Grants Pass, Oregon U.S.A." which identifies the manufacturer. Another rectangular plate reads "Limited Edition of 19,500 pieces, commemorating a very special aspect of the Old West." This indicates it is part of a numbered series, although the specific number in the series is not discernible from the provided images. A 'thumb rest' or 'catch' mechanism, which is a common feature on western-style belt buckles, is also visible on the back. The buckle shows signs of wear consistent with its age, including surface scratches and rubbing, particularly on the raised elements, and an overall darkened patina that hints at its vintage status. The color appears to be a dull brass or bronze, indicative of unpolished metal with age. The overall construction suggests durability and the quality of the engraving on the reverse side is clear and legible. A red sticker with "309" written on it, likely an auction identification, is affixed to the back.