Are you an avid collector of vintage cast iron toys? If so, you may have come across a few Hubley cast iron dogs in your search. The unique design and superior craftsmanship that went into making these dogs are what has kept them popular among collectors for more than a century. But how do you know if the one in front of you is a genuine Hubley cast iron dog?

Hubley cast iron dog figurines were produced in the early 1900s by the Hubley Manufacturing Company, based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The company was known for creating high-quality cast iron toys that were aesthetically pleasing and durable.

This article will explore some essential factors to consider when identifying an authentic Hubley cast iron dog. Read on to learn how to identify a hubley cast iron dog!

What Will You Need?

Before we dive into the details, let’s quickly go over the tools and materials you’ll need to identify a Hubley cast iron dog correctly:

• A strong flashlight or light source
• A magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe
• Knowledge of standard casting techniques used during the early 1900s
• Patience and attention to detail

Once you have these items ready, it’s time to start examining your cast iron dog!

10 Easy Steps on How to Identify a Hubley Cast Iron Dog

Step 1. Examine the Overall Appearance:

Start by evaluating the general appearance of the cast iron dog. Genuine Hubley dogs boast an intricate level of detail, from the texture of the fur to the facial features and expressions. The figure should appear life-like, as Hubley was renowned for their realistic designs.

Step 2. Look for the Markings:

Hubley toys often had the company name or a specific pattern number marked on them. Use your flashlight and magnifying glass to inspect your cast iron dog for these indicators carefully. They may be located on the inside of a leg, on the belly, or even on the figure’s underside. It’s important to note that these markings may be faint or worn due to age, so inspect them thoroughly.

Step 3. Check the Paint and Finish:

An original Hubley cast iron dog will most likely show signs of age in its paint and finish. The company used a particular kind of paint, which tends to develop a unique patina over time. This patina, often a dull sheen or gloss, is indicative of the age of the piece. While it’s common for paint to chip off old toys, an original Hubley should still retain most of its paint due to the high-quality materials used. Be wary of figures with fresh or bright paint, as these may be recent reproductions.

Step 4. Evaluate the Weight and Feel:

Authentic Hubley toys are made of cast iron, which has a distinctive weight and feel. A genuine Hubley dog should feel solid and heavy for its size. The surface of the casting should be smooth, without noticeable bumps or rough spots. Cast iron also has a coolness to the touch, unlike plastics or other materials. If the toy seems too light or doesn’t feel cool and smooth, it might be a reproduction or made of another material.

Step 5. Check for Seams and Casting Lines:

The presence of seams or casting lines can often be a telltale sign of an authentic Hubley cast iron dog. Two halves of a mold were put together during the casting process, and the molten iron was poured in. When the pieces were separated, this often left a noticeable line or seam.

Look for these lines along the sides of the figurine – they are usually found running vertically from the head down to the legs. Reproductions or fakes may need more details or have too perfect or machine-made seams.

Step 6. Assess the Quality of the Casting:

High-quality casting is a hallmark of Hubley pieces. Examine the cast iron dog for signs of this superior craftsmanship. Authentic Hubley dogs should have sharp, well-defined features and a high level of detail, including fur texture, facial expression, and accessories like collars or tags. By contrast, reproductions or lesser-quality pieces may have blurry or ill-defined features and need more crispness and precision than authentic Hubley figures.

Step 7. Compare with Known Authentic Pieces:

One of the most reliable ways to identify an authentic Hubley cast iron dog is by comparing it with known original pieces. You can refer to books, online collector’s forums, museums, or even auction sites to get a good idea of what a genuine Hubley dog should look like. Pay close attention to the features, colors, shapes, and sizes. Remember, Hubley produced various dog breeds, so compare your piece with the same breed for accurate identification.

Step 8. Consult a Professional:

If you still need to figure out the authenticity of your Hubley cast iron dog, it’s wise to consult a professional. A seasoned antique dealer, particularly one specializing in vintage toys, will have the knowledge and experience to assess your piece accurately. They can help verify the presence of Hubley-specific characteristics and provide additional historical context or insight about the piece. Remember, it’s better to seek expert opinion than to overestimate the value of your item.

Step 9. Evaluate the Price:

The price of the Hubley cast iron dog can also give you an indication of its authenticity. If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Genuine Hubley figures can fetch a premium in the market thanks to their quality, rarity, and historical value. A suspiciously low price might indicate a reproduction or a less desirable piece. Always do your research and know the going rates for Hubley cast iron dogs of various breeds and conditions before making a purchase.

Step 10. Trust Your Instincts:

Lastly, trust your instincts. If something about the cast iron dog feels wrong, it may not be authentic. Perhaps the dog is too light, the paint too new, or the details need to align with what you know about Hubley toys. Remember, no single factor guarantees authenticity, so it’s important to consider all aspects. A keen eye, thorough knowledge, and intuition can go a long way in distinguishing a genuine Hubley cast iron dog from a reproduction.

With these steps in mind, you should now have a good understanding of how to identify a Hubley cast iron dog.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. If you need to find out if you have a Hubley cast iron dog, there are a few key features to look out for. First and foremost, Hubley dogs were known for having exceptional detail and lifelike features. If the dog looks more cartoonish or less detailed than other cast iron toys, it’s likely not a Hubley.
2. Examine the body and legs of the dog. Hubley dogs typically have smooth, rounded body with realistic muscle definition. The legs are also usually proportionate to the body, unlike some other cast iron dogs, which may have exaggerated or disproportionate features.
3. Hubley dogs were cast with a hollow underside and typically had a small hole or mark where the molten iron was poured in. This is a telltale sign of an authentic Hubley dog.
4. Use a magnet to test the dog’s material. Hubley dogs were made with cast iron, so they should be magnetic. If the magnet does not stick, it’s most likely made from a different material.
5. Finally, do your research and compare images online. Many resources are available that showcase authentic Hubley cast iron dogs and their distinguishing features.

With these tips and tricks in mind, you should now be able to identify a Hubley cast iron dog confidently. Remember to always handle the toy carefully and appreciate its historical significance as a beloved collectible item. 

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Avoid handling the Hubley cast iron dog with rough or dirty hands. These are delicate antique items and can be damaged by oil and dirt.
2. Do not clean it with harsh chemicals or abrasives. These can strip away the original paint and reduce the toy’s value.
3. Refrain from making any modifications or attempting to restore the Hubley dog yourself. Any changes can potentially devalue the toy and are typically frowned upon by collectors.
4. Only purchase a Hubley cast iron dog if you do sufficient research. Fakes and reproductions are common in the antique toy market and can be difficult to distinguish from the real thing.
5. Do not rely solely on one attribute to identify a Hubley dog. Use multiple factors, such as the level of detail, the presence of a pour hole, and the reaction to a magnet, to confirm authenticity. Relying on just one factor can lead to an incorrect identification.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you are correctly identifying a Hubley cast iron dog and preserving its value as a prized collectible.

Conclusion

All in all, a Hubley Cast Iron Dog has some distinct identifying features. It’s essential to pay attention to the details like the sturdiness, paint, logos, and other company markings.

By noting these distinguishing characteristics and researching, you can be sure you’re investing in a real, authentic Hubley Cast Iron Dog. Whether for an investment or aesthetic value, a genuine Hubley Cast Iron Dog will surely impress.

Hopefully, the article on how to identify a hubley cast iron dog has been helpful and informative. Remember to handle these antique toys carefully and appreciate their historical significance. Happy collecting!