An early spade bit by noted California maker Albert Benjamin Hunt (1876-1967). Loose jaw spade with double slobber chains. Engraved flowed silver cheeks with domed conchos and a Spanish spade mouthpiece. In pristine condition.

Born of Chilean ancestry, Abbie began making bits in approximately 1917-18 while working for Espinosa in Ventura County, CA. His early work was relatively simple and unmarked with distinctive teardrop overlays on cheeks coming later. Abbie began marking bits in the 1940s on the advice of his friend and benefactor, Felix Guitron of Indio, CA. Abbie was considered a good vaquero in Bakersfield and lived with his wife in the nearby town of Caliente, CA. Hunt was known as a top “torch man” who refined his trade while making braces for crippled children.