70 lb Hay Budden Anvil – Marked A143 – Made in 1918, Brooklyn, New York

Offered for sale is a rare and highly collectible 70 lb Hay Budden anvil, one of the most respected American anvils ever produced. Marked A143, this anvil was manufactured in 1918 in Brooklyn, New York, according to the renowned reference book Anvils in America.

This anvil is in remarkably good condition for its age. The face is exceptionally clean, the edges remain sharp, and it appears to have seen very little actual use throughout its lifetime. Rebound and ring are excellent, reflecting the quality craftsmanship that made Hay Budden a legendary name among blacksmiths and collectors.

Condition notes: there is a minor grinder mark and a few small welding spatters on the surface—unfortunate additions from a previous owner—but they do not significantly affect the anvil’s functionality or overall appeal. Despite these cosmetic imperfections, the anvil remains a superb example of an early 20th-century Hay Budden.

An interesting aspect of this piece is its location. It was discovered in France, where traditional London-pattern anvils are relatively uncommon. Given its 1918 production date, it is possible that the anvil arrived in Europe with Allied military forces during or shortly after World War I, as many English and American pattern anvils are believed to have done. While this history cannot be confirmed, it certainly adds an intriguing layer to the story of this century-old tool.

Whether you’re a blacksmith looking for a premium working anvil or a collector seeking an authentic piece of American forging history, this 70 lb Hay Budden is a rare opportunity to own a well-preserved example from one of the golden eras of anvil manufacturing.

Manufacturer: Hay Budden Manufacturing Co.
Weight: 70 lbs
Marking: A143
Date of Manufacture: 1918
Location of Manufacture: Brooklyn, New York, USA
Pattern: London Pattern
Condition: Very Good – sharp edges, excellent overall preservation, minor grinder mark and small welding spatters.