singletree

thanks for the comments, got a few more pictures today and was able to get a friend's opinion who is familiar with anvils, and very suprised when he quite strongly wanted to buy it from me. hope he doesn't stay peeved that I wouldn't consider it! the one side has very faint lettering " C I P P " seems to be all and all that I can make out other side has (initials?) "RJ" when I first saw this anvil sort of figured that it was from one of the small makers which understand, if correctly, there were many for a period of time. origin is another matter; finding it hard to believe that it came over on a ship long ago, but stranger things do happen seems to have a nice bounce when hit with a brass hammer, all that I have as yet, probably 1 1/2 -2 # weight. the ring varies on the location struck, but is appealing to my ear did lightly hand wire brush and wipe some linseed oil into the sides the downside is that the face seems to have had some work done on it at some point and there has been some filing that is apparent in many locations, but, still very happy to have lucked onto it after several years of searching appreciate all the input from everyone and looking forward to learning about the trade here

Will try the tip about the hammer at the hardie hole Mac and thanks. Only hit it with a tiny hammer and what I notice is that the 'ring' is different at different parts of the face. Is this to be expected with any anvil? Feel very good about the piece and its condition and got it for a very good price, barely above a buck a pound ! Appreciate the encouragement to get hammerin' also, as that is what is in the plans. Does it look like a particular maker's work or another? (not that it matters at this point, just curious about it)

Well, these aren't the "good" shots that I wanted to put up but maybe allow some input and suggestions for better pictures after some time with a wire brush/wheel and better light and set up. Some of you surely can tell me more than I know at this point! thanks for the replies also. (hardie hole is 1.25")

Thanks for the tip to prevent damage to my anvil, as I am just beginning to learn about their use. Should have some pictures up in a day or so, as I want to get some 'good' shots of it. My estimation is that it is in 'good' condition. Looking forward to who may know about its maker as the previous owner was unable to identify (them). Plan on learning alot from this forum as my interest has been excited about blacksmithing.

After 3 years looking, or more, have just purchased my first anvil. New to the trade and not fully educated about anvils. The anvil is marked "PJ" and 302, but other that figuring the weight to be 338#; have no idea what I have bought. Will post pictures when I have suitable ones. Appreciate any input to figure more out, or ideas to get the best pictures. The anvil is to go into my 'all around' shop mostly for farm/auto, but open to the idea of exploring the art of blacksmithing. thanks for any replies.