JAMESFOSTER, Jr.

INSTRUMENTMAKER

CINCINNATI,OHIO Ca. 1850’S

BEAUTIFULANTIQUE GOLD RUSH SCALE

Thereis very little advertising for his scales, leads me to conjecturethat Foster’s venture into the gold mining market was perhaps notparticularly successful. It is, of course, impossible to say, withany certainty if this particular scale was originally used during theGold Rush, though this one offered here came from California, givingrise to the possibility it may very well have been. Ineither case, a nice artifact from the California Gold Rush era.

Woodenoak case with a hinged lid and hook clasp, maker’slabel to inside of lid. Interior has linedcompartments for the brass scale and weights.

Thescale, pans,and chains areallbrass. Thecrossbeamis5-3/4” long. Thepansare 2-1/2”dis. andaresuspended by linkchains. Thebox: 7\"x 3-1/2\"x 3/4’,when hanging: 14\"

Comeswith an extensive array of 18 gold assaying weights. There arethree, complete, matched sets with 6 graduated weights in each. Theymeasure in Drachms, Scruples, DWTS, and grains, thus giving the toolsto measure to a very high degree of accuracy. Some of the weightshave tarnished over time.

Everythingis in good original condition. Well made and of high quality thatwill display beautifully. The box is superb with a great grainpattern on the lid and a lovely aged patina. Just a few minor knocksand scuffs.

Thescale has been lightly cleaned and is ready for display with itsoriginal aged look preserved. I cannot guarantee the accuracy of thescale and it is being sold as a decorative collectors item ratherthan a working scientific instrument.

Pleasehave a good look at the photos and if you have any questions at allplease ask.

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