1965 NM High School Rodeo Queen Buckle View Watchlist >
Sterling Silver & Gold Overlay, Diablo Mfg., 103g
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$0.00
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$12.00
($3.00 as additional item)
Lot # HJ138
System ID # 23903712
Start Date
End Date
2 Watching
1965 NM High School Rodeo Queen Buckle
Sterling Silver & Gold Overlay, Diablo Mfg.
This exceptional sterling silver trophy buckle was awarded at the 1965 New Mexico High School Rodeo in Santa Rosa, NM, crafted by the respected Western silversmiths Diablo Manufacturing Co. The oval buckle is richly hand-engraved with scrolling floral motifs and a finely detailed rope border. At its center, the words “QUEEN” and “1965” are boldly rendered in gold overlay, creating a striking contrast against the sterling ground. Across the banner above, the engraving reads “N. MEX. HIGH SCHOOL RODEO – SANTA ROSA, N.M.”, firmly anchoring the piece in place and time.
Founded in 1945 in Oakland, California, Diablo Mfg. quickly became known for their superior silverwork, later expanding into Grass Valley, CA, after acquiring the historic Visalia Stock Saddlery Co. in 1963. Their trophy buckles, tack, and Western accessories were coveted for meticulous hand engraving, gold accents, and robust construction. This example reflects their mid-century style at its finest: both functional and deeply artistic.
The buckle also carries rich cultural meaning. The rodeo queen tradition—part of high school rodeo since its early years—celebrated young women who embodied horsemanship, poise, and community spirit. In the 1960s, high school rodeo had grown from a grassroots Texas event to a national movement, with Santa Rosa’s rodeo grounds standing proudly along storied Route 66. This buckle, therefore, is not only a wearable piece of sterling artistry but also a tangible symbol of youth achievement, Western heritage, and the enduring rodeo queen legacy.
With its substantial weight of over 103 grams of sterling silver, gold overlay highlights, and finely preserved detail, this buckle is both a striking collectible and a wearable piece of history. Rarely do such Queen-specific buckles surface—particularly with this level of craftsmanship and provenance. An exceptional opportunity for collectors of Western Americana, trophy buckles, or mid-century silverwork.
Condition:
Good vintage condition with expected surface wear, scratches, and natural tarnish consistent with age. The gold overlay remains vivid, and the engraving is sharp. Hardware is secure and functional. We have left the polishing to the buyer.
Dimensions/Weight:
Overall with belt loop: 3" x 4" x 0.5"
Weight: 103.64 grams
Accommodates belts up to 1.5" wide
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