What's this??

[JimsShip]

I just found this listed on ebay, and I've never seen one. What is it, and what would it be used for?
(I'm assuming it had another purpose than just blacksmithing.)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Unusual-Old-Antique-Primitive-Bell-Shaped-Metal-Blacksmith-Anvil-/140688389337?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20c1ae74d9

[Bentiron1946]

I think it is part of vise that had this as part of it. Since it is cast iron it wasn't meant for very heavy useage as far as forging goes.

[CurlyGeorge]

I saw one very similar at a farm auction. It did have the vice still attached and was in working order. If my memory is correct, it only brought about $50 at that auction. As Jerry said, it's not meant for very heavy pounding. :)

[ThomasPowers]

It was part of a vise but now it's a door stop not good for any hammering on than straightening a bent nail.

As such I'd guess it might be worth US$20 to someone not the 200+ dollars their starting bid is!

Lets hope nobody buys it as a surprise gift for a new smith needing an anvil and so blows the anvil purchase budget for an ASO.

[CurlyGeorge]

Here's another one. These guys are nuts on the prices!!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-1879-Millers-Falls-Blacksmith-Farrier-Farmer-/230733800929?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35b8ce65e1#ht_1449wt_698

[hans138]

Here's another one. These guys are nuts on the prices!!

http://www.ebay.com/...1#ht_1449wt_698

its crazy the prices people put on these things. sometimes i have to stop my self from sending them messages and letting them know how horribly wrong they are about value and actually usefulness.