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Offered here is an authentic piece of copper overspill (sometimes called “drip” or “splash” copper) from the Douglas, Arizona smelter, where ore from the famous Bisbee Mine was processed.
This specimen weighs 4 lbs 5 oz and measures approximately 7" x 4" x 2". It shows classic overspill texture with flow patterns and natural patina in coppery reds, dark grays, and iridescent highlights.
Pieces like this formed when molten copper overflowed or solidified along the edges during smelting. They are increasingly hard to find and make excellent display specimens for collectors of mining history, geology, or Arizona memorabilia.
Provenance:
This piece was acquired during my years growing up in southern Arizona. I lived in Sierra Vista and frequently visited Bisbee and Douglas, including the mine and smelter sites. This specimen has been in my personal collection since those visits and is directly tied to the Douglas smelter that processed Bisbee ore.
Shipping:
Will be packed securely for safe delivery. Weight and dimensions will determine shipping cost.
The last pictures are of the Copper Queen mine and the smelter in Douglas. The smelter was shut down in the 1987 and dismantled in 1991.