Cast metal garden sundial featuring Grim Reaper motif

This is a circular cast metal garden sundial exhibiting a heavily weathered, aged finish with significant surface oxidation, rust spots, and a greenish-grey patina simulating verdigris. The plate features a raised Roman numeral chapter ring along the outer perimeter, running conventionally from standard hours with visible tick marks for minute or fractional graduations. At the center is a vertically oriented gnomon, which appears slightly angled and has a small paper price tag attached to it. Below the gnomon is a raised figural relief depicting the Grim Reaper holding a scythe. Flanking this central figure are raised capital letter inscriptions split into two halves: on the left side, the text reads "GROW ALONG ME THE BEST" (with a missing preposition such as "WITH"), and on the right side, it reads "OLD WITH IS YET TO BE" (suggesting a rearrangement or miscasting of the classic Browning quote "Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be"). The outer edge is bordered by a raised beaded or dotted pattern. The item shows extensive wear, discoloration, and weathering consistent with outdoor garden placement, though its exact age and manufacturer remain unverified due to the absence of legible maker marks or stamps.

Based on what I can see in the image, this cast metal garden sundial features a distinctive Grim Reaper motif and miscast poetic inscription. I cannot verify the exact age, metallurgy, or manufacturer from a photograph alone, and physical inspection would be needed to determine if this is an older garden ornament or a more recent decorative reproduction. The estimated value range of $75 to $150 assumes an older cast iron or aluminum garden piece of this decorative type, supported by current general market demand for gothic or memento mori-themed garden decor. The heavy weathering, surface oxidation, and verdigris-style patina contribute to its aesthetic appeal, though condition issues like this can sometimes impact structural integrity depending on the underlying metal. If physical examination reveals the piece to be a modern mass-market replica or reproduction rather than an older casting, the value would likely decrease closer to $30 to $50. To further evaluate this item, a physical inspection, checking for maker marks beneath mounting brackets, and potential metallurgical testing would be required.