Vintage Austin-Hall Python Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9 D
Maker: Austin-Hall (Made in Mexico)
Era: Late 1980s / Early 1990s
Material: Natural Python Vamps, Dark Brown Leather Shafts
Condition: Good Condition

The Boots
A handsome pair of vintage Austin-Hall boots pairing genuine natural python vamps with tall dark brown leather shafts and beautiful cream flame-and-wing stitchwork. Classic, versatile, and full of that late-’80s/early-’90s exotic-boot character — this is a great everyday python boot with real presence.

The python vamps display the skin in its natural coloration — a warm tan and cream base with the distinctive dark brown diamond-band markings that make python instantly recognizable. The large, well-defined scales carry a soft natural sheen, and the snakeskin extends from the pointed toe up over the instep and around the heel counter, wrapping the lower boot in premium exotic. No two python boots are ever exactly alike — the pattern is entirely natural.

The tall shafts are crafted from rich dark brown leather and decorated with elaborate flame-and-wing stitchwork in cream thread — flowing, symmetrical patterns with a heart motif at the center that climb the front and back of each boot. The pointed toe, tall stacked heel, and pull straps complete the silhouette. Inside, the boots feature a golden buttercup leather lining and the woven “Austin-Hall / Made in Mexico” label.

Condition
These boots are in good condition with honest wear. The python skin is intact with scales tight throughout the vamps and the natural pattern beautifully preserved; there is some honest wear and light scuffing at the toes consistent with use (see photos). The dark brown leather shafts are supple with light creasing and the cream stitchwork fully intact and crisp. As shown in the sole photos, the leather soles display honest wear from use but remain solid, and the stacked heels show wear with the heel caps intact. The golden interior and Austin-Hall label are clean and legible. Overall a well-cared-for pair with plenty of life left.

Vintage M.L. Leddy Hand-Made Calfskin Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9.5 E
Maker: M.L. Leddy of Texas (San Angelo · Midland · Fort Worth)
Material: Smooth Calfskin
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A handsome pair of hand-made M.L. Leddy boots in warm honey/buckskin tan calfskin — understated, elegant, and built to the exacting standard that has made the Leddy name legendary in Texas for over a century. No flash, no gimmicks: just beautiful leather, masterful stitchwork, and the kind of quality you can feel.

The boots are crafted from smooth, supple calfskin in a rich golden-tan that has developed a warm, glowing patina over the years. The tall shafts are decorated with elegant wheat-stalk and flame stitchwork — flowing, symmetrical patterns that climb the front and back of each boot, executed with the precision that defines a true custom maker. A classic scalloped collar with pull straps, a round toe, and a stacked leather walking heel complete the timeless silhouette.

Inside, the boots carry the prized cloth label: “Hand Made by M.L. Leddy of Texas — San Angelo · Midland · Ft. Worth,” confirming the authentic Leddy provenance. The interiors are fully leather-lined.

M.L. Leddy of Texas
M.L. Leddy’s was founded in 1922 when Martin Luther Leddy began crafting custom boots and saddles, eventually building one of the most respected names in the American West. With locations historically including San Angelo, Midland, and the famous Fort Worth Stockyards store, the fourth-generation family business is renowned for impeccable hand craftsmanship, premium leathers, and a custom fit that has kept ranchers, oilmen, and boot connoisseurs coming back for generations.

A pair of hand-made Leddys represents the gold standard of Texas bootmaking. These vintage examples — with the multi-location cloth label — are increasingly sought-after by collectors who appreciate genuine, made-to-last craftsmanship.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition with honest wear. The tan calfskin is supple and richly toned, showing natural creasing across the vamps and a beautiful broken-in patina (with some light scuffing and handling marks consistent with age — see photos). The wheat/flame stitchwork remains crisp and fully intact. The leather soles show honest wear from use but remain solid, and the stacked heels show wear with intact heel caps. The interior is clean with the M.L. Leddy cloth label present and legible. Overall a well-cared-for pair with plenty of life left.

Vintage Tony Lama El Rey Collection Full-Quill Ostrich Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9.5 D
Maker: Tony Lama — El Rey Collection (Made in U.S.A.)
Material: Genuine Full-Quill Ostrich Vamps, Brown Leather Shafts
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A handsome pair of vintage Tony Lama boots from the prestigious El Rey Collection — Tony Lama’s premium line — featuring genuine full-quill ostrich vamps in a rich cognac/saddle brown. (“El Rey” means “The King” in Spanish, and these boots wear the name well.) Classic, refined, and built from one of the most comfortable exotic leathers in the world, this is a true everyday luxury boot from a golden era of American bootmaking.

The ostrich vamps showcase the prized full-quill pattern — the dense field of raised quill bumps from the bird’s prime back section that distinguishes premium ostrich from lesser smooth-cut grades. The skin has developed a beautiful warm patina over the years, glowing in tones of cognac, chestnut, and saddle brown with the characteristic supple, oily richness ostrich is famous for. The ostrich extends across the vamps and up over the instep, and the round toe keeps the silhouette classic and wearable.

The tall brown leather shafts feature elegant flame-and-scroll stitchwork — flowing, symmetrical patterns in tan and golden thread that climb the full height of the shaft, with pull straps at the collar. The interior reveals the maker: the iconic yellow “El Rey Collection by Tony Lama / Made in U.S.A.” woven label over a golden leather lining. The boots rest on leather soles with the Tony Lama stamp and a stacked Western heel.

Tony Lama & The El Rey Collection
Tony Lama has been crafting boots in El Paso, Texas, since 1911, building a reputation as one of the most trusted names in Western footwear. The El Rey Collection represented Tony Lama’s top-tier, premium handcrafted line — boots made with the finest exotic leathers and the company’s best construction. A vintage El Rey pair carries real prestige among collectors, combining a coveted maker’s mark with genuine premium exotic skin, all made right here in the U.S.A.

Ostrich remains one of the most desirable exotic leathers for boots — it is incredibly soft and flexible (requiring virtually no break-in), the natural oils help it resist cracking, and it only grows more beautiful with age.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition with honest wear. The full-quill ostrich vamps remain supple and intact with the quill pattern clearly defined and a rich, glowing patina throughout; there is some honest wear, light surface marking, and a few darker spots/scuffs at the toes consistent with age and wear (see photos). The brown leather shafts show creasing and softening, with the flame stitchwork fully intact. The leather soles show wear from use but remain solid (Tony Lama stamp still visible), and the stacked heels show wear with intact rubber heel caps. The yellow El Rey interior label is present and legible. Overall a well-cared-for pair with plenty of life left.

Vintage Mexicana Eagle Inlay Mule Ear Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9.5 D
Maker: Mexicana
Era: 1980s / 1990s
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A jaw-dropping pair of vintage Mexicana boots that bring together two of the most desirable features in collectible Western footwear: a spectacular eagle inlay design and dramatic mule ear pull straps. This is wearable folk art — bold, romantic, and brimming with old-world Mexican bootmaking artistry.

The centerpiece of each shaft is a magnificent eagle, wings spread wide, rendered in golden yellow leather with a bold red heart at its breast — a powerful, romantic motif that combines strength and passion in a single image. The eagle sits against a crisp ivory/white leather field, surrounded by intricate zigzag and flame inlays in white, brown, and deep green that create a layered, dimensional composition climbing the full height of the shaft. The contrast of the golden wings, red heart, white field, and warm brown leather is striking and timeless.

The dramatic mule ears — the long, pointed leather pull straps extending down the front of each shaft — are the showpiece feature. Each mule ear is itself decorated with a white leather flame inlay and a tiny red heart, tying the design together from top to bottom. Beyond their bold visual appeal, mule ears are a traditional, functional element that makes these tall boots easier to pull on — a classic detail rarely found on modern production boots.

The two-tone leather body pairs a warm honey/tan upper with a rich cognac vamp, accented by flowing scroll inlays at the toe and a snip toe profile. The boots sit on a stacked leather heel.

Vintage James Leddy Custom Ringtail Lizard Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9 D
Maker: James Leddy Boots (Abilene, Texas)
Material: Genuine Ringtail Lizard Vamps, Ivory Leather Shafts
Custom Detail: Personalized “Don” Name Inlay
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A genuine custom pair from one of Texas’ most legendary bootmakers. These vintage James Leddy boots feature natural ringtail lizard vamps paired with elegant ivory/cream leather shafts — a refined, sophisticated combination accented by burgundy and tan stitchwork and a personalized name inlay that marks these as a true one-of-a-kind commission.

The ringtail lizard vamps display the skin’s signature banded scale pattern — fine, tight rows of small rectangular scales running in horizontal bands that create an almost woven texture. The natural tan coloration shows beautiful variation, from pale buttery tones to warmer caramel, and the lizard wraps from the pointed toe up over the instep. Ringtail (teju) lizard is prized for its durability and its understated, elegant appearance.

The tall shafts are crafted from soft ivory/cream leather — an uncommon and striking choice that makes these boots stand out from the typical brown-and-black palette. The shafts feature flowing scroll and floral stitchwork in burgundy and tan thread, with a delicate stitched pattern that climbs gracefully up each side. Most notably, the front of each shaft bears a custom leather inlay spelling “DON” — the original owner’s name, hand-inlaid into the boot, confirming these were a personal custom order built specifically for one individual.

The pointed snip toe and stacked leather heel complete the classic Western silhouette. The interior bears the James Leddy markings confirming the custom Abilene provenance.

James Leddy: A Texas Bootmaking Legend
James Leddy (1937–2003) was born into a bootmaking dynasty in San Angelo, Texas, and made his first complete pair of boots — entirely by himself — at just 12 years old. He went into business for himself in Abilene, Texas, where for over 40 years he built a reputation as one of the finest custom bootmakers in the state [1] [2].

Leddy crafted boots for an impressive roster of entertainers — Mel Tillis, George Jones, Larry Gatlin, Jerry Lee Lewis, and actress Jane Seymour among them — all of whom were willing to endure a six-month waiting list for his fancy, beautifully made boots fashioned from exotic leathers [2]. Yet as his son Brent recalled, Leddy’s true passion was making boots for the farmers and ranchers whose work demanded quality footwear: “Making boots was all he wanted to do… he just made boots seven days a week” [2].

The James Leddy name carries serious weight among boot collectors and Texas Western heritage enthusiasts. The shop continues today in Abilene, but boots actually made by James Leddy himself — during his lifetime, before his passing in 2003 — are increasingly collectible and sought-after. As a member of the broader Leddy bootmaking family (which also includes the famous M.L. Leddy’s of Fort Worth and San Angelo), James Leddy represents a direct link to one of the most storied lineages in American bootmaking.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition with honest wear. The ringtail lizard vamps remain intact with the banded scale pattern clearly visible, showing some wear and scuffing at the toes consistent with use. The ivory leather shafts show creasing, softening, and some age-related discoloration/soiling typical of light-colored vintage leather. The burgundy and tan stitchwork remains intact, and the “DON” name inlays are secure and clearly legible. The leather soles show wear, and the heels show scuffing. These boots have been worn and carry the character and provenance of a genuine custom Leddy commission.

Vintage Tony Lama Teju Lizard Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9 D
Maker: Tony Lama (El Paso, Texas)
Material: Genuine Lizard Vamps, Black Leather Shafts
Era: 1980s
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A classic 1980s exotic from one of the most respected names in the business. These vintage Tony Lama cowboy boots feature genuine ringtail lizard vamps in a warm natural tan, paired with tall black leather shafts and stunning butterfly scroll stitchwork. The earthy lizard against the dramatic black upper creates the kind of timeless two-tone contrast that never goes out of style.

The ringtail lizard skin is beautifully displayed across the vamps. Ringtail (teju) lizard is prized for its distinctive banded scale pattern — fine, tight rows of small rectangular scales that run in horizontal bands across the skin, creating an almost woven or basket-like texture. The natural tan coloration shows lovely variation, from pale buttery tones to warmer caramel, with subtle darker markings that add depth. The lizard wraps from the pointed toe up over the instep and around to the heel counter for generous exotic coverage.

The tall black leather shafts are the showpiece of the design. Elaborate butterfly-pattern scroll stitching in gray/silver thread fills the entire shaft — flowing, symmetrical wings of interlocking curves, flames, and fan shapes that create a dramatic, almost art-nouveau effect. This is Tony Lama’s stitchwork at its finest: dense, precise, and beautifully balanced. The black leather pull straps and V-notch collar complete the upper.

The pointed snip toe and stacked leather heel maintain the classic Western silhouette. The interior is lined in golden tan leather and bears a hand-marked size notation.

Tony Lama in the 1970s and 80s
The 1970s and 80s were a creative high point for Tony Lama. Founded in El Paso, Texas, in 1911, the company was still family-owned and manufacturing entirely in El Paso during this era — producing some of the most beautifully crafted exotic boots in the industry. Their elaborate multi-row shaft stitching, like the butterfly pattern on this pair, was a hallmark of the period and remains highly recognizable to collectors today.

Ringtail lizard was a popular exotic choice during this era — durable, distinctive, and more understated than flashier skins like python or alligator. The natural tan colorway pairs beautifully with the black shafts, making these boots both eye-catching and surprisingly versatile.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition with honest wear. The ringtail lizard vamps remain intact with the banded scale pattern clearly visible, though the toes show wear and some surface scuffing/abrasion at the very tips consistent with regular use — the lizard has taken on a worn, broken-in character at the toe. The black leather shafts show creasing and natural softening. The gray butterfly stitching is fully intact and striking. The leather soles show heavy wear. The stacked heels show wear with intact rubber heel caps. These are honestly worn boots with great character and plenty of life remaining.

Vintage Justin White Label Pre-Ban Sea Turtle Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9 D
Maker: Justin (Fort Worth, Texas — White Label)
Material: Genuine Sea Turtle Vamps, Black Leather Shafts
Era: Pre-Ban Vintage
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A rare and important pair for the serious exotic collector. These vintage Justin “White Label” cowboy boots feature genuine sea turtle vamps — an exotic leather that has been completely banned from commercial trade for decades. Crafted during the era when Justin’s White Label denoted their premium handmade line, these boots represent both exceptional craftsmanship and an irreplaceable piece of bootmaking history.

The sea turtle vamps display the unmistakable texture of genuine turtle skin: large, distinct segmented scutes (the plate-like sections of the shell and skin) with a pebbled, almost quilted surface that catches the light in a way no other leather can replicate. Dyed a deep black, the natural cellular pattern of the turtle skin remains beautifully visible, creating a rich, organic texture across the entire vamp. The exotic skin extends from the pointed toe up over the instep — full vamp coverage of this exceedingly rare material.

The tall black leather shafts feature an elaborate, dense stitching pattern in red and silver/white thread — flowing scrollwork, flame motifs, and interlocking curves that fill the entire shaft from the V-notch collar down to the ankle. The red accent stitching adds warmth and dimension against the black leather and ties beautifully into the dark sea turtle below.

The interior is the tell-tale sign of quality: a gorgeous golden buttercup leather lining, stamped with the vintage Justin script logo “Justin / Fort Worth, Texas” and the “Inspector LF-1” quality stamp. The pointed snip toe and stacked Western heel complete the classic silhouette.

The “White Label” Distinction
Justin’s “White Label” was historically used to denote their premium, higher-quality production — boots made with better materials and greater attention to detail than their standard line. To boot collectors, a vintage Justin White Label signals a pair that was built to a higher standard, and these are increasingly sought-after in the vintage market.

Justin Boot Company, founded in 1879 and operating out of Fort Worth, Texas, since 1925, is one of the most storied names in American bootmaking — the original “Standard of the West.” During the era these boots were made, Justin was producing exotic leather boots of exceptional quality at their Fort Worth facility.

Why Pre-Ban Sea Turtle Matters
Sea turtles are protected under international law, and all species are listed under CITES, making any commercial trade in sea turtle products illegal. No new sea turtle leather can legally enter the market — period. Every pair of sea turtle boots in existence today is pre-ban vintage stock: a finite, irreplaceable supply that will never be produced again.

Among exotic boot collectors, sea turtle occupies a rarefied tier alongside elephant and anteater — far rarer than alligator, ostrich, or python. The distinctive segmented texture is instantly recognizable to those who know exotic leathers, and genuine pre-ban sea turtle boots are actively hunted by serious collectors.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition. The sea turtle vamps are intact with the segmented scute pattern clearly defined and the surface solid throughout — no cracking or major losses. The black leather shafts show creasing and natural softening from wear. The red and silver stitching is fully intact. The leather soles show heavy wear consistent with regular use. The stacked heels show wear and scuffing. The pointed toes show scuffing at the tips. The golden interior lining is clean with the Justin script label clearly legible. These boots have been worn and enjoyed, and they retain both their structural integrity and their collector appeal.

Vintage Tony Lama Blue Python Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9.5 D
Maker: Tony Lama (El Paso, Texas)
Material: Genuine Blue-Dyed Python Snakeskin Vamps & Heel Counters, Blue Leather Shafts
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
Midnight blue from top to bottom. These vintage Tony Lama cowboy boots feature full python vamps dyed in a deep navy/teal blue, paired with matching dark blue leather shafts and bold Gothic-inspired stitching — creating a monochromatic blue boot with serious presence and attitude.

The python vamps are dyed a rich, dark blue that shifts between navy and teal depending on the light, with the natural scale pattern creating depth and visual movement across the entire lower boot. The large, well-defined scales catch the light with a subtle iridescent quality — flashing hints of teal and blue-green as the boot moves. The snakeskin extends generously from the pointed toe up past the ankle and wraps completely around the heel counter, providing full exotic coverage from every angle.

The dark blue leather shafts feature an aggressive, angular stitching pattern in lighter blue and cream thread — a Gothic cross/fleur-de-lis design with sharp, pointed terminals and interlocking geometric shapes that give the boots an almost medieval quality. The stitch pattern is bold, dense, and architectural — more cathedral window than country dance hall. This is Tony Lama at their most dramatic.

The interior is fully lined in Tony Lama’s signature golden tan leather. The pointed snip toe and dark stacked heel with rubber caps complete the silhouette. Pull straps sit at the collar in matching dark blue leather.

The Blue Monochrome Effect
Blue-dyed python boots are uncommon in the vintage market, and the decision to match the shaft leather to the python dye creates something truly special. Rather than the standard two-tone contrast of most exotic boots, the monochromatic approach gives these a unified, intentional look — like they were designed as a single, cohesive statement rather than assembled from separate parts. The lighter stitching provides the only contrast, floating above the dark blue canvas like silver filigree on midnight velvet.

This colorway works particularly well with dark denim, black jeans, charcoal slacks, or navy suits — the blue reads as sophisticated and moody rather than flashy, making these surprisingly versatile for a dyed exotic boot.

Condition
These boots have been well worn and carry honest vintage character. The blue python skin is intact with scales tight throughout — no peeling or lifting. The dye remains even and rich across both vamps. The dark blue leather shafts show significant creasing and natural softening from regular wear. The stitching is fully intact. The leather soles show heavy wear with visible patina. The stacked heels show significant wear and scuffing. The pointed toes show wear at the tips with some scale edge lifting at the very front. These are boots that have been lived in — and the broken-in character only adds to their appeal.

Vintage Tony Lama Green Python Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9.5 D
Maker: Tony Lama (El Paso, Texas)
Material: Genuine Green-Dyed Python Snakeskin Vamps & Heel Counters, Dark Green Leather Shafts
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
Not your average snakeskin boot. These vintage Tony Lama cowboy boots feature full python vamps dyed in a rich olive/forest green — an uncommon colorway that sets them apart from the sea of natural and black python boots on the market. Paired with matching dark green leather shafts and tone-on-tone stitching, the result is a monochromatic green boot with serious depth and character.

The python vamps display large, well-defined scales in a deep olive-green coloration with natural darker markings that add dimension and visual interest. The dye has penetrated the scales evenly, creating a cohesive color that reads as earthy, masculine, and distinctly different. The snakeskin extends from the pointed toe up past the ankle and wraps completely around the heel counter — full exotic coverage that showcases the scale pattern from every angle.

The dark green leather shafts feature dense, flowing scroll and flame stitching in a slightly lighter green thread — a tone-on-tone effect that gives the shafts texture and movement without breaking the monochromatic palette. The stitching pattern is classic Tony Lama: bold, sweeping curves and interlocking scrollwork that fills the entire shaft. Dark green pull straps sit at the collar, and the interior is fully lined in Tony Lama’s signature golden tan leather.

The pointed toe and black stacked heel with rubber caps maintain the traditional Western profile.

Why Green
Green python boots are genuinely uncommon in the vintage market. While natural tan and black python are everywhere, green-dyed exotic leather was a specialty offering that required additional processing and was produced in smaller quantities. The olive/forest green colorway gives these boots a distinctive character — they read as earthy and outdoorsy rather than flashy, making them surprisingly versatile despite being an exotic boot in a non-traditional color.

The green-on-green monochromatic approach — matching the shaft leather to the python dye — creates a cohesive, intentional look that elevates these above a standard two-tone exotic boot. Everything works together as one unified design.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition. The green python skin is intact with scales tight throughout — no peeling or lifting. The dye remains even and vibrant. The dark green leather shafts show creasing and natural softening from wear. The tone-on-tone stitching is fully intact. The leather soles show moderate-to-heavy wear. The black stacked heels show scuffing. The pointed toes show minor wear at the tips with some scale edge lifting at the very tip. These boots have been worn regularly and have developed the kind of broken-in character that makes vintage boots so appealing.

Vintage Tony Lama Python Cowboy Boots — Natural & Black
Size: Men’s 9.5 D
Maker: Tony Lama (El Paso, Texas)
Material: Genuine Python Snakeskin Vamps & Heel Counters, Black Leather Shafts
Includes: Original Tony Lama Brass Medallion
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
A timeless combination that never goes out of style. These vintage Tony Lama cowboy boots pair full natural python snakeskin vamps with black leather shafts featuring Tony Lama’s signature bold scroll stitching — a design that has been turning heads in honky-tonks and boardrooms for decades.

The python vamps display the exotic skin in its natural golden-tan coloration with the characteristic dark diamond-shaped markings that make python one of the most recognizable exotic leathers in the world. The large, clearly defined scales shimmer with a natural sheen, and the skin extends generously from the pointed toe all the way up past the ankle and wraps completely around the heel counter — full exotic coverage that showcases a significant amount of premium snakeskin.

The black leather shafts feature Tony Lama’s iconic swirling scroll stitching in olive/gold thread — a dense, multi-row pattern of flowing S-curves and spiral motifs that covers the entire shaft from collar to ankle. This is one of Tony Lama’s most recognizable stitch patterns, and the olive/gold thread against the black leather creates a striking contrast that perfectly bridges the natural python below and the dark upper above.

The original Tony Lama brass medallion still hangs from the pull strap on a ball chain — a detail that confirms these boots have been well cared for and adds a touch of authentic provenance. The interior is fully lined in Tony Lama’s signature golden tan leather. The pointed toe and black stacked heel maintain the classic Western silhouette.

Tony Lama and Python
Tony Lama has been crafting boots in El Paso, Texas, since 1911, and their python boots have long been among their most popular exotic offerings. The natural python-and-black combination became a Tony Lama signature — a pairing that works because the warm golden tones of the natural snakeskin contrast beautifully against the dark leather shaft, while the olive/gold stitching ties the two together seamlessly.

Python is one of the most versatile exotic leathers for cowboy boots. The natural coloration pairs with virtually any outfit — jeans, khakis, suits — making it a true everyday exotic that never looks out of place. The scales are durable and age gracefully, developing character over time rather than deteriorating.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition. The python skin is intact with scales tight and glossy throughout — no peeling or lifting. The natural coloration remains vibrant with the dark diamond markings clearly defined. The black leather shafts show creasing and natural softening from wear. The olive/gold scroll stitching is fully intact. The leather soles show moderate-to-heavy wear with visible nail heads. The black stacked heels show wear and scuffing. The pointed toes show minor scuffing at the tips. The original brass medallion is present and intact. These boots have been well worn and well maintained.

Vintage Lucchese San Antonio Black Anaconda Cowboy Boots
Size: Men’s 9.5 D
Maker: Lucchese (San Antonio, Texas)
Material: Genuine Black Anaconda Snakeskin Vamps, Black Leather Shafts
Condition: Good Vintage Condition

The Boots
Understated power. These vintage Lucchese San Antonio cowboy boots deliver one of the most sophisticated looks in Western footwear: full black python snakeskin vamps paired with matching black leather shafts and tone-on-tone stitching. There’s no flash here, no contrasting colors — just premium exotic leather and masterful craftsmanship speaking quietly and confidently for themselves.

The anaconda vamps are dyed a deep, glossy black that allows the natural scale pattern to do all the talking. The large, defined diamond-shaped scales catch the light with a subtle sheen, creating depth and texture that you simply cannot achieve with standard leather. The snakeskin extends generously from the pointed toe up through the instep and wraps completely around the heel counter — full coverage that showcases a significant amount of premium anaconda.

The black leather shafts feature elegant tone-on-tone stitching in a flowing, organic scroll pattern — visible up close but subtle from a distance, giving the boots a refined, dressy quality. The interior is lined in Lucchese’s signature golden tan leather. The classic pointed toe and underslung riding heel maintain the traditional Western silhouette.

The “San Antonio” Distinction
Not all Lucchese boots are created equal. The “San Antonio” designation refers to boots produced at Lucchese’s original San Antonio, Texas, factory — the same facility where the company was founded by Italian immigrant Salvatore Lucchese in 1883. San Antonio-made Lucchese boots represent the brand’s highest tier of craftsmanship, produced by the most experienced bootmakers using the finest materials and traditional hand-lasted construction methods.

Among collectors and boot aficionados, “Lucchese San Antonio” carries significantly more weight than the brand’s later production lines. These boots were made during the era when the San Antonio factory was still the heart and soul of the operation — before any outsourcing, before any cost-cutting, before any compromise. A pair of Lucchese San Antonio exotics represents the gold standard of American bootmaking.

Condition
These boots are in good vintage condition. The black anaconda skin is intact with scales tight and glossy throughout — no peeling, no lifting, no dry spots. The black leather shafts show natural creasing and softening from wear. The leather soles show moderate wear. The stacked heels show scuffing at the base. The pointed toes show minor wear at the tips. The interior golden tan lining is clean and intact. These boots have been well maintained and present beautifully — the all-black colorway ages gracefully and hides wear better than lighter colors.

Vintage 1950s Nocona Cowboy Boots – Men’s Size 9 D
Brand: Nocona Boot Company
Era: 1950s
Size: Men’s 9 D
Color: Black with tan leather lining
Material: Premium leather upper, shaft, and sole

The Boots
Step into a piece of true Texas history with this exquisite pair of vintage 1950s Nocona cowboy boots in a men’s size 9 D. Crafted from rich, supple black leather, these boots feature a striking six-petal floral or leaf medallion stitch pattern adorning the front and back of the shaft, an elegant hallmark of mid-century Western boot design. The meticulous top-stitching is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship that defined the era.

The interior is fully lined with soft tan leather, ensuring comfort that has stood the test of time. Inside the pull tabs, the iconic woven cloth label proudly declares “NOCONA BOOT / NOCONA TEXAS” in black lettering on a golden-yellow background. The boots are finished with a classic pointed toe, a stacked leather heel, and a durable leather sole equipped with a rubber heel cap marked “Nocona.” The natural patina, gentle creasing, and rich wear patterns on the leather tell a story of authentic use, adding undeniable character to this remarkable pair.

The Nocona Legacy
These boots were born during a golden age of Western wear, produced under the watchful eye of one of the most remarkable figures in Texas business history: Enid Justin.

The story of the Nocona Boot Company is deeply intertwined with the origins of the cowboy boot itself. Enid Justin was the daughter of Herman Joseph “Daddy Joe” Justin, who began making boots for cowboys on the Chisholm Trail in Spanish Fort, Texas, in 1879 [1]. When the railroad bypassed Spanish Fort in 1887, Joe Justin moved his family and his burgeoning boot business to the town of Nocona to take advantage of the shipping lines [2].

Enid grew up in the shop, learning the trade from the ground up starting at the age of twelve. When her father passed away in 1918, the family business continued successfully. However, in 1925, Enid’s brothers made the decision to move the Justin Boots operation to Fort Worth, lured by the Chamber of Commerce [1].

Enid firmly believed her father would have wanted the business to remain in Nocona. Demonstrating extraordinary independence and grit, she stayed behind. Borrowing $5,000 and retaining seven employees, she founded the Nocona Boot Company in 1925 [2]. Despite facing local prejudice against a woman running a manufacturing business, Enid’s company thrived. The 1926 oil boom near Nocona created a massive demand for durable, 16-inch lace-up work boots, cementing the company’s financial foundation [1].

The 1950s Era
By the time these specific boots were crafted in the 1950s, the Nocona Boot Company had weathered the Great Depression and World War II, emerging stronger than ever. Enid Justin had served as president since 1934 [1].

These boots were manufactured in the company’s “new” 30,000-square-foot plant, which opened in 1948 just east of Nocona on U.S. Highway 82 [1]. The 1950s brought a general slump to the Western boot industry, but Nocona pushed through by introducing improvements in bootmaking and advanced designs [1]. This era produced some of the most beautiful and structurally sound boots in the company’s history, characterized by the “Hand Lasted for Better Foot Comfort” philosophy proudly advertised during the decade.

Owning this pair of 1950s Nocona boots is not just about owning exceptional vintage footwear; it is about holding a tangible piece of Enid Justin’s legacy—a testament to a woman who defied expectations to build an empire in the heart of Texas.

1980s Hondo Antelope Cowboy Boots — Men’s 9.5 B

A sharp, understated exotic from the golden era of Hondo — finished in a striking pale grey antelope with contrasting black shafts and intricate western stitching throughout.

Era & build

• Maker: Hondo Boots
• Era: Likely 1980s
• Genuine antelope vamps with beautifully textured natural grain
• Black leather shafts with dense tonal embroidery
• Traditional leather soles and stacked leather heels
• Classic western toe profile with a low riding cowboy heel

Size & fit

• Tagged size: Men’s 9.5 B
• Narrower B-width fit
• Best suited for slimmer feet or those who prefer a more glove-like vintage fit

Condition grade

Vintage B+ — extremely clean overall with honest light wear.

• Antelope remains soft and supple throughout
• Minor natural creasing across the vamps from age and wear
• Soles show moderate use but retain plenty of life
• Heels solid and structurally sound
• Clean interiors and strong pull straps

Tony Lama Elephant — Men’s 9.5 D

Heavyweight heritage in a rare skin — classic Tony Lama build in elephant with sharp, high-contrast shaft work.

Era & build

• Maker: Tony Lama
• Era: 1980s
• Material: Genuine elephant vamp with leather uppers
• Construction: Traditional stitched welt, leather soles
• Toe/heel: Broad round toe with a classic western heel
• Shaft: Black uppers with bold lightning-style stitching in white/blue tones

Size & fit

• Tagged: 9.5 D
• Fit: True to size; standard D width with a structured instep typical of vintage Lama builds

Condition grade: Vintage B

• Elephant vamps in strong shape with natural grain and light creasing
• Soles show honest wear but remain solid with life left
• Heels intact with moderate wear
• Uppers clean with minor scuffs consistent with age