Vintage Sterling Silver Santa Barbara Spade Bit

This truly is one of the most incredible bits we’ve seen. Truly a vintage bit, isn’t marked, but is clearly from a talented builder. The unique floral detailing at the side of the mouth and construction of the roller suggests it may be a Morales, but either way this spade is just incredible. Sterling silver mounted over iron, spoon style spade with copper wrapped bars. Slightly smaller mouth at 4 15/16″, with a  wider spoon style spade. Spade measures 3 3/8″, as measured to the bottom of the mouth. Straighter, Santa Barbara style cheeks with absolutely incredible engraving work. Raised dots along the side and carrier through the shanks. Even has silver on the bit stabilizer. Bridle rings/purchase tapper out to limit pinching. Shanks measure 8″, with original rein ring. Balance of this bit is spot on, is tight with no abnormal movement or wiggle. Has a teeny bit of shank movement at the mouth, as typical of spades. Well cared for, spending decades as a prized piece in the collection of a life long and respected collector. Iron mouth, showing a bit of natural rust, some browning/rusting to the shanks, bit of natural patina on the silver. This spade is in incredible condition, its ready to ride/show, or add to your collection.