There is a 258lb Trenton anvil for sale for 500$ a little over an hour away from me. I am meeting him tomorrow morning to look at it in person. I was wondering what you guys thought about this deal? 

Thanks guys 

I attached pictures for reference

Thats just a fraction under 2 dollars per pound. It looks like its in pretty nice shape too. Pending a rebound test and thorough inspection for cracks, etc, I would say thats a heck of a deal, and would snatch that right up, were I you. 

Now thats not to say you cant try to offer 450. Haggling is fun! 

Yep, seems to be a pretty good deal. That's one of those early Trentons that is made essentially like a Peter Wright. Do the ring test and rebound test, and just make sure the face is decent. Looks good in the pic from what I can't tell.

Looks like I can see remnants of the Trenton logo in the picture. If the ring & rebound are good, I would jump on it in a heartbeat.

3 hours ago, C-1ToolSteel said:

 . Looks good in the pic from what I can't tell.

Meant to say CAN!

Thanks guys, I planning on getting it if it tests well. I was unexpectedly called in to work today so I was unable to go and see it today. I am going on Friday now. 

I would not hesitate... deals like that can disappear quickly

Friday unfortunately is the soonest I can go. 

I got it for $400 it has a small hole in one side of the face but other than that it tests very well and is quiet. The hole does not go all the way through the face plate and there are no signs of cracks. 

 

Good deal. 

Nice score!

I purchased this anvil earlier this morning and I was wondering if anyone could tell me any information about it. I didn't think to take any more pictures of it while I was at the shop. I looked it over and I did not find any other numbers than the 258 on the side of the anvil and the makers stamp. I have been looking around and I think I read that there may be a number under the feet but I don't relish the idea of moving it again.

thanks guys

Ya done very good at $1.55 a pound.

Agreed. She will treat you well, im sure. 

Good Brand, most made in Columbus OH by the Columbus Forge and Iron Co. 258# for $500 is a GREAT DEAL on it as long as it passes the ring and bounce tests.

On 11/27/2017 at 5:55 PM, ThomasPowers said:

Good Brand, most made in Columbus OH by the Columbus Forge and Iron Co. 258# for $500 is a GREAT DEAL on it as long as it passes the ring and bounce tests.

It passed the tests and I bought it for 400$. How can I tell where this one was made and when?

1. Show us a picture of the bottom of the anvil. 2. Find the serial number on the front foot and post it.

No serial number.  It is a German-made Trenton.

So can you help him with the when?

Before 1898

I did look it over as black frog said I couldn't find one. It was made before 1898 that is awesome.  I wouldn't think that more information would be possible due to no serial number. Hopefully I am wrong?

What more information do you need?

Maybe who made it. But with no serial number I wouldn't expect it to be possible. 

When were Trenton's first started to be made? 

Any information is nice, anvils are pieces of history. 

Have you thought of buying a copy of Anvils In America, Richard Postman?

Amazon has it but the price is a little steep ($75.00 to &150.00). I keep hoping a copy will show up in one of the thrift stores around here.