Scrimshaw Cribbage Board Value Guide

This Scrimshaw Cribbage Board represents a significant era of American folk art, crafted from a genuine walrus tusk between 1900 and 1950. These pieces are highly collectible because they bridge the gap between functional gaming equipment and the maritime tradition of bone and ivory engraving.

What Is Scrimshaw Cribbage Board Worth?

The typical price range for Scrimshaw Cribbage Board is $700 - $850 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The complexity and artistic quality of the scrimshaw engravings significantly impact the $700-$850 price range.
• Physical condition of the walrus tusk, specifically the absence of major cracks or chips in the ivory.
• The presence of original wooden elements and the completeness of the cribbage peg holes.
• Historical provenance or specific artist signatures that link the piece to the 1900-1950 era.

How to Identify Scrimshaw Cribbage Board?

• Examine the surface for the characteristic grain and density of authentic walrus tusk rather than synthetic resin.
• Look for intricate hand-engraved maritime scenes, ships, or animals typical of traditional whaler artistry.
• Check for the integration of wood components used to stabilize the tusk for use as a functional game board.
• Verify the age-appropriate patina and wear consistent with early 20th-century American origin.

History of Scrimshaw Cribbage Board

Scrimshaw is the art of carving on bone or ivory, traditionally practiced by whalers during their long voyages at sea. These intricate carvings often depicted maritime scenes, ships, or animals, and served as both decorative items and a way to pass the time. Walrus tusks, due to their size and durability, were a common material for creating functional and artistic pieces like cribbage boards. This particular piece showcases the enduring appeal of scrimshaw as a folk art form.