AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a detailed metal figurine, likely bronze or a bronze-finished alloy, depicting 'The Lone Sailor'. The figure is modeled after the iconic statue at the United States Navy Memorial, created by sculptor Stanley Bleifeld. The sailor is portrayed in a characteristic stance with hands tucked into his pea coat pockets, collar turned up against the wind, wearing a 'Dixie cup' hat and bell-bottom trousers. The sculpture stands on a rectangular metal plinth which is further mounted upon a tiered cherry or walnut-finished wooden base. The metal displays a dark, dark-brown patina with subtle highlights on the raised textures of the coat and facial features. On the front of the wooden base is a rectangular brass-colored plaque, which typically displays commemorative text or the name of the piece. The overall craftsmanship shows careful attention to the folds of the clothing and the facial expression, suggesting a high-quality commemorative or gift-shop edition. The condition appears fair to good, with some light dust accumulation and minor wear to the wooden base edges, though no significant structural damage is visible in the image. This style of sculpture is common as an award or souvenir related to US Naval service, likely dating from the late 20th century to the present.

I have conducted a visual examination of the metal figurine, identified as 'The Lone Sailor,' based on the iconic original by Stanley Bleifeld. The piece demonstrates high-quality casting with a deep brown patina and authentic detailing of the naval attire. The condition is graded as good, with slight edge wear on the wooden base and expected oxidation consistent with late 20th-century commemorative editions often sold at the US Navy Memorial or gifted as service awards. The market for military memorabilia and naval bronze replicates is currently stable. Comparables for this specific 8-to-10-inch scale model typically sell within the $150 to $250 range at auction, though pieces with personalized plaques or documented provenance to high-ranking officials can command a premium. This valuation assumes the base material is a cold-cast bronze or bronze-finished alloy rather than a solid lost-wax casting. Limitations: This appraisal is based solely on digital images. A physical inspection is required to confirm the metal composition (via weight or streak test) and to search for foundry marks or the sculptor’s signature obscured by the mounting. Absolute authentication would require original purchase documentation or a certificate of authenticity from the Navy Memorial Foundation. Without a physical tactile check, I cannot definitively distinguish between a high-end resin composite and a true metal alloy.