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Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole Anvil Identification: A Complete Guide
Antique anvils, like the Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil, are highly sought after by blacksmiths and collectors due to their historical significance and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a collector, blacksmith, or simply curious about these anvils, proper identification is crucial. This guide will help you with Trenton anvil identification, understanding Mouse Hole anvil weight, and determining value using Trenton anvil serial number lists.
If you’re looking for Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil identification by serial number, Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil identification PDF, or community insights from Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil identification Reddit, this article covers everything you need to know.
What is a Mouse Hole Anvil?
A Mouse Hole anvil is a type of anvil produced by M&H Armitage Mouse Hole Forge in Sheffield, England, from the late 1700s to the early 1900s. These anvils are recognizable by their unique construction, featuring a “mouse hole” indentation near the base, which was a byproduct of their forging process.
Mouse Hole Anvil Key Features:
- Made from wrought iron with a hardened steel face
- Stamped weight markings using the hundredweight system
- Signature “mouse hole” design near the bottom of the anvil
The M&H Armitage Mouse Hole anvil value varies depending on age, condition, and historical significance. Well-preserved examples can fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Trenton Anvil Identification
Trenton anvils were produced by the Columbus Forge & Iron Company in Ohio from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. These anvils were fully steel-forged, making them durable and desirable among blacksmiths.
Trenton Anvil Key Features:
- The “TRENTON” stamp on the side or front of the anvil
- Serial numbers stamped on the foot of the anvil
- The weight marking in pounds (e.g., “126lb”)
For proper Trenton anvil identification, you must locate and decode the serial number.
Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole Anvil Identification by Serial Number
The serial number on a Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil is typically found on the front foot under the horn. These numbers help determine the manufacturing year.
How to Identify a Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole Anvil by Serial Number:
- Find the Serial Number – Usually stamped on the front foot.
- Compare with the Trenton Anvil Serial Number List – This helps date your anvil.
- Check Online Resources – Websites, collectors, and blacksmithing forums often provide information on Trenton serial numbers.
A Trenton anvil serial number list can be found in reference books or online Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil identification PDFs, making it easier to pinpoint the year of production.
How to Determine Mouse Hole Anvil Weight
The Mouse Hole anvil weight is traditionally marked in the hundredweight system (cwt), commonly found on M&H Armitage Mouse Hole anvils.
Understanding Mouse Hole Anvil Weight Markings:
- First number = full hundredweights (112 lbs each)
- Second number = quarter hundredweights (28 lbs each)
- Third number = additional pounds
For example, a Mouse Hole anvil marked “1.0.14” weighs 126 lbs (1×112 + 0×28 + 14).
Resources for Anvil Identification
For further research, you can refer to Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil identification PDFs, online guides, and forums such as Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil identification Reddit. These platforms provide:
- Detailed weight and serial number charts
- Discussions on Trenton anvil values
- Restoration tips from experts
Final Thoughts
Trenton 126lb Mouse Hole anvil Identification requires examining weight markings, serial numbers, and manufacturer stamps. Using resources like Trenton anvil serial number lists, online communities, and reference PDFs, you can accurately determine your anvil’s age, origin, and value.
If you’re considering buying or selling a Trenton anvil, proper identification ensures you understand its true worth. Happy smithing! 🔨🔥
FAQs on Trenton and Mouse Hole Anvils
1. How to identify a Trenton anvil?
To identify a Trenton anvil, look for these key features:
- Manufacturer’s Stamp: The word “TRENTON” is usually stamped on the side or front of the anvil.
- Serial Number: Found on the front foot under the horn, the serial number helps determine the year of manufacture.
- Weight Markings: Trenton anvils are marked with their weight in pounds (e.g., 126lb).
- Material: Unlike older wrought iron anvils, Trenton are fully steel-forged, making them more durable.
- Shape: Trenton anvils have a distinctive waist and heel, often with a well-defined step between the face and horn.
Comparing the serial number with a Trenton anvil serial number list can help date the anvil accurately.
2. When were Mouse Hole anvils made?
Mouse Hole anvils were produced by M&H Armitage Mouse Hole Forge in Sheffield, England, from the mid-1700s to the early 1900s. These anvils were commonly used in blacksmithing, farriery, and general metalworking throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
The production of Mouse Hole anvils slowed down in the early 20th century as newer manufacturing techniques and competitors, like Trenton and Hay-Budden, gained popularity.
3. When were Trenton anvils made?
Trenton anvils were manufactured in the United States from around 1878 to the early 1950s by the Columbus Forge & Iron Company in Ohio. These anvils were known for their high-quality steel construction and durability.
The serial numbers on Trenton anvils can be used to determine their production year. A Trenton anvil serial number list can be found in blacksmithing reference books and online forums.
4. Are Mouse Hole anvils good?
Yes, Mouse Hole anvils are highly regarded among blacksmiths and collectors due to their historical significance and solid construction. However, their quality depends on several factors:
- Material: Most Mouse Hole anvils are made of wrought iron with a hardened steel face. The steel face can wear down over time, reducing its usefulness for modern blacksmithing.
- Weight Markings: Mouse Hole anvils use the hundredweight system to mark weight, making identification tricky.
- Durability: While strong, some older Mouse Hole anvils may develop cracks or delamination between the wrought iron and steel face.
For collectors, the M&H Armitage Mouse Hole anvil value depends on age, condition, and weight. While they are not as durable as fully steel-forged anvils like Trenton or Hay-Budden, they remain excellent tools for traditional blacksmithing and are prized by antique tool enthusiasts.
