Identification

Cast Iron Anheuser-Busch "A and Eagle" Bookend

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

The item is clearly identifiable as a cast iron bookend featuring the iconic Anheuser-Busch 'A and Eagle' logo. It serves as both a functional decorative object and a piece of advertising memorabilia (breweriana).

Story

The 'A and Eagle' logo is one of the most recognizable trademarks in American brewing, officially registered by Anheuser-Busch in 1877. Mid-20th-century promotional items were often produced in durable materials like cast iron for use in executive offices, distributor desks, or high-end taverns. The secondary market for mid-century advertising memorabilia remains steady, particularly for iconic American brands like Anheuser-Busch.

Maker / Origin

Anheuser-Busch

Condition & Value

The item is described as heavy and solid with a felted bottom intact. Cast iron from this era typically shows minor paint loss, edge wear, or light surface oxidation, which are acceptable and expected.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for mid-century advertising memorabilia remains steady, particularly for iconic American brands like Anheuser-Busch. Functional decorative arts, such as cast iron bookends, appeal to both brand-specific collectors and general interior decor buyers. Singular bookends (orphans) typically move slower than complete pairs and are often repurposed by buyers as doorstops or standalone shelf accents.

Value Drivers

Iconic Anheuser-Busch 'A and Eagle' branding attracts crossover breweriana collectors.

Durable cast iron construction ensures functional utility as a heavy bookend or doorstop.

Felted bottom preserves modern surfaces, making it ready for immediate use.

Concerns

Incomplete set — singular bookends trade at a significant discount compared to matched pairs.

Lack of visible foundry marks limits attribution to a specific premium manufacturer.

Comps are asking prices for generic eagles, requiring extrapolation for this specific branded single.

Best Venue

List on a broad secondary marketplace like eBay or Etsy, utilizing keywords for both 'Breweriana' and 'Cast Iron Decor'. Clearly state in the title and description that this is a single bookend to avoid buyer confusion. Price at $45-$50 for a steady sale, or accept offers around $30 for a quicker turnaround.

Upside Potential

If a collector is actively seeking this exact piece to complete an orphaned pair, or if it retains exceptionally vibrant, original factory paint (pending visual confirmation), the value could push toward the $60-$75 range.

Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 3 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Etsy
    Anheuser Busch Marble Bookends Limited Edition Gold Seal Black Marble White Vein
    Different material (marble vs cast iron) and a pair instead of a single.
    $65
  • LuminousThreadsLTD
    Vintage Handpainted Cast Iron Metal Clydesdale Horse Bookends
    Different motif (horse vs eagle) and pair instead of single.
    $18
  • Vintage Cast Iron Eagle Bookends
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price