Posted 8 years ago
JimDandy
(5 items)
My most recent barn-find, first thought to be a 42" high 'penny-farthing, but appears to my untrained eye to be earlier?
Maybe a 'boneshaker' but seems too big for a child, and too small for an adult?
Blacksmith made, iron tires on wooden fellows.
The spokes seem to be hand-forged.
I have one very simular but I think it is a kids.
I hope you find evidence to prove me wrong because it would be awesome to own an original. But, This looks like a 1970 - 80's fantasy item. The manufacture of this one is the same as the small decor trikes that have been made for several years.
Agree with aztom-- this is a modern fantasy piece and not a true antique.
These have been around the antique markets for the last 20- 30 years. They are nice decorator pieces, but unfortunately are often sold as authentic antiques to unsuspecting collectors at what would be a bargain for a true antique (and too high for what they really are).
scott
Thanks guys.
I didn't cost a whole lot and got no real history with it.
Still, it has that authentic 'feel' about it.
JimDandy, Glad to hear you weren't burnt on it. Every now and then you see someone asking a few thousand dollars for one of these.
They do make a great display item.
I'm bringing the bike to a private transport museum owner to have it appraised and hope to have a result soon.
Thanks again for all the replies.
I had this 'bike' examined yesterday at the private Museum.
Yes, they said, 'it's the real deal.'
'Not factory made, not for a child, but built for a lady by a craftsman in the early 1870s.'
Happy Days !