ID Help

[John - Maryland]

Found this near an old pre-Civil War Church. It was very deep and covered with green corrosion (Copper or Brass). I couldn't make anything out on it at first so I used electrolysis on it, and gave it some color to see the details better. Found in a big Civil War Area. Eagle Head and Shield. Any Ideas? Thanks

 

[NH Bob]

I have one also. Would be interested in the guesses or link.

 

[John - Maryland]

Got a reply on the Relics Forum that they thought it is a old fashion "Door Bell". That is something I thought of also, except that the metal is too thick and heavy. Also if I tap it with anything there is no ring at all.

 

[NH Bob]

Now I remember where I've seen those. As a kid I remember them. On the outside of the door was a gizmo you turned and the bell rang like an old style phone.

 

[John - Maryland]

See: http://houseofantiquehardware.com/s.nl;jsessionid=ac112b321f4315e8e5b6a0ee43efa40da6e922f2c935.e3eSc38TaNqNe34Pa38Ta38Qbxn0?it=A&id=14926&sc=10&category=43

I think this is what your talking about but there is no ring on the one I have.

 

[John - Maryland]

After testing it further I think you are right. I tapped it with some metal and it does ring a little. Thanks for your help.

 

[John - Maryland]

It was also suggested to me that it could be the outer half of an old Victorian style Door Knob. Because there is a lip around the edge, it looks to have fit together with another half.

 

[NH Bob]

[attachment 83173 thingy.JPG]

 

[John - Maryland]

Yours is in better shape than mine. I bet they must be collectible. From what I understand they are from the Victorian era. (1880-1906)

 

[dljones54]

Several years ago, I found one of these at my uncle's old homeplace and I was told that it was an old type of doorbell, too. When I tapped its side, it rang out loud and clear. Just a guess that your find is a bell of some sort, too.