Jocko Graves Lawn Jockey Value Guide

The Jocko Graves Lawn Jockey is a significant piece of Americana, traditionally crafted from cast iron with a distinct flat-back design. These figures are highly collectible due to their connection to the legend of a young boy who served George Washington during the Revolutionary War, serving as both functional hitching posts and symbolic lanterns.

What affects the value of Jocko Graves Lawn Jockey?

• The presence of original, unrestored paint can significantly increase the value for serious collectors.
• Structural integrity of the cast iron, specifically the absence of cracks or heavy rust pitting, affects the $275-$300 price range.
• The clarity of the casting details, such as the facial features and jockey attire, determines the piece's desirability.
• Historical provenance or evidence that the piece dates specifically to the early 20th-century United States origin.

How to Identify Jocko Graves Lawn Jockey?

• Verify the material is heavy, authentic cast iron rather than modern aluminum or plastic reproductions.
• Look for the specific 'flat-back' casting style characteristic of the 1920-1940 production era.
• Examine the figure for original multi-colored paint layers, which often show natural weathering and patina.
• Check for the presence of a functional or decorative lantern held in the figure's hand.

History of Jocko Graves Lawn Jockey

According to legend, the figure commemorates Jocko Graves, a twelve-year-old African American boy who served with George Washington. He died from exposure while holding a lantern to guide the soldiers back across the Delaware River. While the historical accuracy is debated, these figures became popular hitching posts and lawn ornaments in the 19th and early 20th centuries.