Post War Elgin?

[Demzie]

As I understood, Elgin badges were used until 1947. I even had one I bought that was sold as Post War [see photo A] as example:

Info? This has been had and sold for some years now, this is the only photo I have to go off

 

[DrRumack80]

Very interesting. I never knew that there were post-war Elgins. The JC Higgins name came into use in 1947, as I understand. It makes sense that Sears would have started production of new bikes up after the War, perhaps in late 1945 or 1946? Purely speculation on my part. The experts here will be able to shed more light on this.

Edit: Here is a post-war Elgin that was listed for sale last year. The drop-outs are still rear facing, but no axle adjusters. You learn something new every day.

Second thread has a detailed discussion on the changes in the post-war Elgin/Higgins bikes

1944-45 Murray Built Elgin "missing link" Project bike | Deal Or No Deal

From what I know, this is an early post war bike. In 1946, Murray built bikes for Sears would be badged as a J.C. Higgins, until then they were badged Elgin. Blacked hubs, fenders may not be original. Offer plus $150 packing and shipping to contiguous US, payment through PayPal or Zelle.

thecabe.com

Early post war Higgins ID help | Classic Balloon Tire Bicycles 1933-1965

Hi, Can anyone get me close on a year for this J.C. Higgins? 26" wheel size frame. This is all the parts I got with it. Murray built if I undestand what I've read in the archives. I've come close with a couple supposed late 40's Higgins bikes that had same frame design and paint scheme...

thecabe.com

 

[Demzie]

@DrRumack80
Ive only ever seen one other like the one I posted. Same exact frame and model and paint scheme but more sunbaked with a later model multispeed seat. I was surprised to find it had a Higgins wheel on it and I'll try to source it again if I'm able.

These examples are pretty evident in their defense of being post war. Cleveland is known for having rear facing dropouts post war so I don't suspect it's unreasonable for Murray/Higgins/Sears to have done the same?

Albeit less common but not necessarily "valuable" due to it.

 

[Demzie]

Found this in search to help kinda back it up some, but folks label things anything these days.

Vintage Elgin 1945, Skiptooth, step thru bicycle - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

For sale by original owner. It’s been stored in the garage for many, many years. $175 OBO Cash/Venmo only

boulder.craigslist.org

 

[Bryan Akens]

I have seen a mens frame that was being sold as a 47.......Ubfortunately I cannot give You any details about it.....