I told this guy I might be interested in this anvil for $100-150. It's a Phoenix, got a little damage but said it has a nice ring. Any experience with Phoenix anvils guys? For $100 I can't go too wrong, and I already have my 150# tfs. Just want opinions.

Richard Postman says that "Phoenix Hardware Manufacturing Company of Buffalo NY produced cast iron bench or crafts anvils." He also says, That the Columbus Forge and Iron Company (maker of Trenton anvils) had several names of anvils sold to places such as Montgomery Ward, Sears and Roebuck etc. One of them was Phoenix. So Your question begs the question, Which Phoenix is it? Phoenix Hardware Manufacturing Company of Buffalo NY or Phoenix by Columbus Forge and Iron Company. Postman also goes on to say that the Trenton name can often be seen as well as the other "Brand X" name like Acme, Ajax, Derby, Indian Chief and many more.

http://killeen.craigslist.org/tls/4651288669.html

Forgot this sorry

Someone was indiscriminate with a cutting torch. Otherwise it wouldn't be bad. I'm betting its a Columbus Forge and Iron sold as a Phoenix. Postman describes the Phoenix Hardware anvils as "bench or crafts" anvils; I'm guessing, 10 - 15 #. That one looks more like a small but "real blacksmith" anvil. Basically a small Trenton. ;)

I'll throw a $100 bill at him and see if he bites

I think that's about the right offer.

I had an anvil stamped Phoenix but sold it a while back. It was also stamped in bigger letters MS&G and warranted.  Turned out it was a Hay Budden dated about 1898. Here's a few pics-

Interesting. Sounds like more than a couple companies used the Phoenix name :)

It was probably a "Brand Name" used by a larger company that then shopped around and had folks build them on a contract basis. (Like Acme for Sears...) Anyway looks to be a real anvil and a good buy at $100

Thanks guys! I'll meet home tomorrow morning and let y'all know!