Reproduction chess set from the 1900s by American Chess Company – Distressed Antiqued/Mahogany Boxwood featuring a 3.9″ king.

Product Description

These unique chess pieces, featuring Kings with a “spire top,” are believed to date back to 1860, supported by various photographs from that time found in the esteemed John G. White collection at the Cleveland Public Library. Although there are several variations, these attractive chessmen, with “rabbit or llama” style knights, are thought to have been offered by the American Chess Company, which began in the late 1890s when it first advertised a famous illustration in the third edition of the American Chess Magazine.

The distinctive knights that inspired this reproduction are dated between 1870 and 1890, as noted in both private and public collections, suggesting they were likely made and sold in the United States.

Along with their unique history—including the use of similar pieces in the prestigious International Masters Tournament at Cambridge Springs in 1904—this reproduction represents a significant period in chess history.

Chessmen Dimensions

Height Base
King 3.75″(97mm) 1.7″ (43mm)
Queen 3.3″ (84mm) 1.5″ (40mm)
Bishop 2.9″ (75mm) 1.4″ (37mm)
Knight 2.9″ (75mm) 1.4″ (37mm)
Rook 2.1″ (54mm) 1.5″ (40mm)
Pawn 1.8″ (48mm) 1.18″ (30mm)

Wood CombinationMahogany Boxwood/ Distressed Boxwood
Dark Chess PiecesMahogany Boxwood
Light Chess Pieces Distressed Boxwood

Recommended Square Size 1.97″ to 2.16″ (50 mm to 55 mm)
Total Weight Of Chess Pieces 2.20 lbs (1000 grams)