VINTAGE 1994
** "COPWRC" RODEO **
** NAVAJO, R. L. BEGAY ~ SCHRUZ, NV **
**~ STERLING OVERLAY ~**
** HAND ENGRAVED TROPHY BELT BUCKLE **
3" x 4 & ¼" & Heavy
Fully Signed on Back
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SIZE: This belt buckle measures: 3" in height; 4 & 1/4" in width ~ Although this piece is not marked as solid sterling (only "sterling overlay"), I am including the weight as general information: Total weight is: 104 grams (or 3.70 OUNCES)
DESCRIPTION: This auction features a vintage 1994 "COPWRC" Rodeo award belt buckle. I will openly note -- up front -- that my knowledge of rodeos in general is quite limited. Even so, I couldn't pass up on the highly regarded "Begay" name and actual award to boot! I initially had a really hard time trying to put a full name to the "COPWRC" abbreviation. The first time I listed though, a kind eBayer did write to me to let me know that the abbreviation stands for: Central Oregon PeeWee Rodeo Club. I do hope this helps -- especially considering my original confusion. The name I had previously considered wasn't anywhere near this one. That said, the front bears intricate and detailed etching into the silver with the following information: "COPWRC / 19 SR. HEADER 94/ Brian Rosebrook." There is also the image of two cowboys in the process of lassoing a calf on the lower right side. The outer most edges bear a twist design with alternating gold and silver all the way around. There are no decorations on the back. It is a phenomenal piece and would be a fine addition to any belt buckle collection.
Please note ~ Any items (jewelry boxes, props, etc.) should *not* be considered a part of this auction. They are present to ensure pictures of the actual item are as nice as possible. Thank you!
MARKING: This piece is marked on the back with: "Sterling Overlay / R.L. BEGAY/ Hand Engraved/ Schurz, NV." I believe R. L. Begay is Navajo; however, he appears to have focused his craft almost solely on belt buckles. Although I did try to find more information about him, I unfortunately came up empty-handed.
CONDITION: FAIR ~ I am considering the age and use of this item when factoring the condition rating. This buckle appears to be in Fair condition for the age and use of it. It does have some usage wear seen -- mostly in the form of surface scratches -- several of which do appear to be deeper. On the front, the most obvious of these appears to be a series of small scratches to the right of the word "HEADER." In addition, the back definitely shows surface scratches -- all in varying degrees of visibility. There is also an area of silver wear which does expose the base metal underneath. I've tried to point out these areas on the pictures, so please do view these carefully. The hinged swivel piece on the back does appear to be secure, but is definitely stiff -- likely from not being used. I do feel this will likely loosen up a bit with use. There is some areas of patina or tarnishing seen. I do understand the varying opinions between "a patina" and "tarnishing," though, and will leave any cleaning or polishing to the new owner. Although it does show obvious areas of use -- particularly to the back -- after 31 years, I do still feel it's doing ok with all things considered.
AGE/YEAR MADE: Dated 1994
Please view the pictures and video as an extension to the description and condition of this piece. I feel it gives a better idea of what you would see in person. If there are any questions, though, please feel free to message me and I will be happy to help.
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** IMPORTANT INFORMATION: PLEASE READ! **
~ GENERAL ~
*** I do my very best to accurately describe the items I sell her on eBay; listing their imperfections as much as their attributes. I always note flaws so there are no surprises when an item is received. The items I offer are nearly always used, though, and therefore are not in, "mint" condition. In fact, I never use the word mint to describe an item. With that said, please do not misunderstand my sometimes low opening bids. They almost never truly reflect the actual value of any item. In fact, they are priced in such a way because I like to keep with the fun and excitement of an actual auction.
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