This Visalia spade bit belonged to legendary horsewoman Sheila Varian (1937-2016). For her contributions as a breeder and as a horse trainer in the vaquero tradition, she was inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in 2003. She bred, raised and trained legendary Arabian horses at her home Varian Ranch in Arroyo Grande, California. Her defining moment came in 1961 when she won the champion Reined Cow Horse competition at the Grand National Horse Show at the Cow Palace in San Francisco on her mare Ronteza. The bit is in outstanding condition. Asking $1350 or best offer for the bit. A letter with provenance will be provided to the buyer.

Bit purchased from her estate by me in 2018. Mouthpiece measures 5". Everything in perfect working condition. A rare opportunity to own a spade bit with history!

Silver inlaid California spade bit attributed to Visalia Saddlery with silver inlay by Figueroa. This loose jaw spade has 6 1/2” cheeks, slobber chains, and is in outstanding condition showing minimal use. This gal leg or lady leg bit pattern was very popular at the turn of the century. Many San Francisco and San Jose saddleries offered these patterns to their customers at that time.