Stephanie

In the 19th century and early 20th century, every farm had to have a bell for communication. Your bell is CRYSTALLINE METAL. The No. 2 was probably about 17" at the mouth and weighed about 50 lbs. including hanger. The value depends on the type mount with it. Sears sold this bell for $1.17 back in 1902. Value is determined by consumer interest and what people will pay for an item. Farm bells are interesting and a novelty now. Farms use "cell phones" now. They sell at most auctions for $50.00 or less. For an accurate appraisal you could contact an appraiser near you by going to our wedsite (www.isa-appraisers.org) and following to links to Search for an Appraiser.
Bill Carner
Birmingham, AL

Does antone know anything about bells? I bought a house recently and there is a large Bell in my backyard on a post. It is cast iron and has the markings crystal metal and USA 2 on it. Is there a way to tell if it is authentic and if so what the value of it is? Anyone's help would be very much appreciated. Thanks to all.