Justin Exotic Snakeskin Western Boots, Size 7.5, Style 31711

This is a pair of vintage Justin brand western-style cowboy boots featuring an exotic snakeskin foot and a detailed leather shaft. The boots are a men's size 7.5, marked with the style/registered number 31711. The vamps are constructed from genuine snakeskin, possibly python or rattlesnake, showcasing a natural tan and cream scale pattern that provides significant texture and visual interest. The shafts are made of a classic tan or medium-brown leather, decorated with intricate multi-row decorative stitching and green-hued embroidered flame or floral-esque patterns along the side. The construction includes a traditional narrow round toe, stacked western heels, and leather outsoles. Notable decorative elements include pull-on straps at the top of the shaft for ease of wear. In terms of condition, the boots show light to moderate wear consistent with age, specifically some minor creasing across the instep and slight darkening of the scales. The stitching remains intact and well-defined, indicating high-quality craftsmanship characteristic of older Justin production. These boots likely date from the late 20th century, representing a classic period of American exotic western footwear. The registered number helps verify their authenticity within the Justin catalog.

I have conducted a visual appraisal of the Justin Exotic Snakeskin Western Boots, Style 31711. My examination reveals the boots to be a well-preserved example of Justin's late 20th-century production. The genuine snakeskin vamps (likely Reticulated Python) exhibit clear scale definition and minimal lifting, which is a key indicator of quality and proper storage. The leather shafts retain vibrant contrast in the decorative stitching, particularly the green-hued embroidery, suggesting limited exposure to harsh elements. Authenticity is supported by the specific Justin internal stamping and construction style typical of their mid-tier exotic vintage lines. The current market for vintage western wear remains strong, particularly for heritage brands like Justin. Comparables for snakeskin models in standard men's sizes typically range from $150 to $300, though size 7.5 sits at the smaller end of the spectrum, which may narrow the pool of potential buyers but appeals to the growing vintage market for women or collectors of smaller sizes. The condition of the leather outsoles and the lack of significant scale loss significantly bolster the value toward the higher end of the range. Limitations: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A full physical inspection is required to assess 'dry rot' in the interior linings, the structural integrity of the internal shanks, and to confirm the scales are not brittle or prone to flaking upon flexion. While the style number aligns with Justin's historical records, definitive provenance would require original sales documentation. Furthermore, exotic skins are subject to CITES regulations; without a physical tag or verifiable provenance, international resale may be restricted.