Roadrunner Bolo Tie Value Guide

The Roadrunner Bolo Tie is a quintessential piece of Southwestern Americana, representing the official neckwear of Arizona and the spirit of the desert. These specific 1970s-1990s examples are highly collectible for their detailed pewter depictions of the fast-running bird, a symbol of agility and good luck.

What affects the value of Roadrunner Bolo Tie?

• Condition of the pewter casting, specifically looking for a lack of oxidation or deep scratches.
• Suppleness of the leather cord, as dried or cracking leather significantly reduces the $30-$50 market value.
• Intricacy of the roadrunner design, with more lifelike or dynamic poses commanding higher interest.
• Presence of original hardware and matching metal tips.

How to Identify Roadrunner Bolo Tie?

• Examine the slide for a detailed roadrunner motif cast in solid pewter.
• Verify the neckpiece is constructed from braided leather cord rather than synthetic materials.
• Check for the characteristic 1970-1990 era construction, often featuring simple tension slides on the reverse.
• Look for matching pewter tips at the ends of the leather strings to ensure the set is original.

History of Roadrunner Bolo Tie

Bolo ties, also known as shoestring neckties or string ties, originated in the American Southwest, with some claims crediting Native American artisans for their invention. They gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a recognized symbol of Western wear and, in 1971, the official neckwear of Arizona. The roadrunner, a fast-running bird native to the Southwest, is a popular motif in regional art and jewelry, symbolizing speed, agility, and good luck.