I've got a couple of old hand forged nails in my accumulation as well. I too have felt and wondered similar thoughts.

My family was in ranching. I was given my maternal great great grandfather's spurs when I was big enough to wear 'em. They always brought a smile to my face knowing they were his and I've wondered what they could tell as my great great grandfather fought in our (un)Civil War. The spurs post date that mess, but he and his son both drove cattle herds. His son, my great grandfather, was murdered in Oklahoma in 1908 after returning from Kansas City and selling his herd. He had no money when found and he was wearing those spurs.

My grandfather wore these spurs and finally me. I don't ride the rough stock anymore. I'm too old and it takes too damn long to heal up. Haven't been on a horse in close to ten years now. Got a friend with three big ranches in West Texas. I hope to ride one last time before I'm too crippled up to enjoy it and gather a few more wild cattle. It's in the plans, we just have to co-ordinate my time off to his round up. Those spurs are hanging on a peg on the wall. I oil the straps every couple of years and they're ready to go if ever I am.

Doubt my kid will ever use 'em, but they'll be his to do with as he pleases when I'm gone.