Old duck decoy found
 

I was recently cleaning out my father-in-laws old barn and came across an old decoy. He said its probably 25 years old. I know its a shot in the dark but does anyone know anything about old decoys. I have looked all over the decoy and there is no name on it or anything.

I know its in bad shape, does anyone know how to paint it even if it's not worth anything, I would like to clean it up and use it as a display piece.

He was thrilled that I wanted it.

I would not paint it at this point but leave as is. It is worth more in this condition than painted.

I could see no marking to help you and think it is older than 25 yrs. Heck I have plastic decoys older than 25 yrs!

Are the eyes painted or glass?

JW

They are glass.

I have SOCKS older than 25 years..That decoy is older than that..

What is it made of...?? Plastic.....cork...paper mache'..???

My friend, that decoy is probably 50 years old or OLDER! Plastic decoys were common 30 years ago, maybe 40.

The base of the decoy is wood however most of the body seems like cork. Is there anyway to determine the value of it?

Is there any possible way to clean it or whats the best method to preserve it.

yes there is a place to find value and I will look for it.

but if it is cork and glass eyes - DO NOT PAINT IT!!!!!

LEAVE AS IS ~ WORTH MORE TO A COLLECTOR

JW

here is a link
http://www.guyetteandschmidt.com/selling.asp

quote

Appraisal Information:


Guyette & Schmidt, Inc. provides free informal decoy appraisals. Send single profile photo of each item and a stamped, self addressed envelope to : Guyette & Schmidt, Inc., PO Box 1170, St. Michaels, MD 21663 or email single profile photo to [email protected] in jpg format. Multiple angle photographs will slow the appraisal.
Insurance and estate appraisals done as well.

I sent an email to see. Thanks for all the info. I will keep you guys updated.

This is what I got emailed me back Steven Lloyd who is another appraiser that I found on the web. Still waiting to hear back from the other appraiser. Kind of interesting information.


Your bluebill drake decoy looks like it may have been made by the Herters decoy & sporting goods co. in Wisconson ... circa 1930-40s..


They made many different styles and species.


They also made plastic heads similar to yours so hunters could add them to damaged cork or wooden decoy bodies..


Value : under $125 .00


Steven Lloyd
Top Historic Waterfowl Decoy Researcher
The National Decoy Information Centre
1-613-922-7000