For your consideration is this collection of 19th century Montana livestock branding irons. A branding iron is used for branding, pressing a heated metal shape against an object or livestock with the intention of leaving an identifying mark. The marks in this collection include four "X" and two "S" irons. The irons show good condition for their age; they are sturdily built with a patina of oxidation due to weather and usage. The largest of the irons measure 23 3/4" long.