Syracuse Smelting Nickel? Bars w/Indian Chief

[DougsGraphics]

Originally Posted by bigbillinsc

i believe what you have is called an anode... sacrificial metal anode...

I thought that too, but couldn't find a clear, positive link. I actually suspect this is bar stock used to make sacrificial rods. The alloy appears to be a fairly guarded secret, which also fits the bill.

[Arkwater]

A bar of cast zinc of the same dimensions as yours would weigh 3lbs & 4 oz. Very possible it is cast zinc used to make sacrificial anodes, which would explain the marine symbols.

[bigbillinsc]

Are the back sides completely smooth... or do they have threaded holes in them. is it possible to get pic of back side

[goodoldstuff]

Originally Posted by bigbillinsc

Are the back sides completely smooth... or do they have threaded holes in them. is it possible to get pic of back side

Wow! Thanks everyone! That helps a lot and I'll use your info to try and find out more about them.

The backs of the bars are smooth, and just slightly indented. Like they were poured into a mold and the back was left to settle on its own. Here is a picture of the back. There are no holes in them.

I think they are great looking, no matter what they are made of, and being an antique dealer, I feel like they are worth more than I paid just selling them as they are. I think most of their appeal are the Indian Chiefs and the stars and stripes emblem. Of course, it would be nice if they were made of a more valuable metal, but, I'm pretty sure I can at least double my cost by selling them individually.

Thanks again for all of your wonderful input! I've gone onto other sites like yours before and people aren't always so helpful to someone who just wants a one-time answer!

[goodoldstuff]

Also, they are kind of "sparkly" in places, especially the back. I also forgot to mention the fact (and this probably gives a better clue!) that they do have the words "alloyed under the Stanley Process" stamped on the back.

[LeoinPA]

Hey goodoldstuff

I'd be thinking in a different direction:
eBay.ca : NOS, 4 Pounds of Babbitt & Scraper for Fitting Bearings objet 200154201392 fin)

BABBITT INGOT!! - (eBay item 170156100847 end time Oct-11-07 16:20:29 PDT)

I've watched as the bearing in the motor of my Model A truck engine were poured and repaired with Babbitt. I believe you have a few ingots used for pouring bearings in motors. Still used today.

Thanks
Leo

[goodoldstuff]

Guess this means my husband can't retire yet. Oh well, I still like them even though they aren't exactly a "treasure". I'll betcha I can make some money off of them at "Trade Days" in a couple of weeks. People (including myself) love stuff with Indians, Stars & Stripes and the word "American" on it!

[goodoldstuff]

Thanks, Leo, I searched Ebay but didn't find what you did. I was searching Syracuse Smelting, American Marine, etc. Hey, if nothing else, during my search I learned what a sacrificial anode is! That'll impress 'em at this weekends family reunion! Thanks again everyone and have a great day!

[Gregory]

Welcome to TQ, why not sell them and get ya a nice metal detector? Then you'll find treasure all the time

[goodoldstuff]

Originally Posted by Gregory

Welcome to TQ, why not sell them and get ya a nice metal detector? Then you'll find treasure all the time

I think that is the best idea I've heard yet! We were actually just talking about doing that. Then I could come here regularly and talk to all you nice folks!