Cased set of Revolutionary War Balance Scales, as in books and museums

This is another unique piece being offered, it is a set of Revolutionary War scales, circa 1740 -1770. They come in the original tin case, measuring 5 ¼” x 2 ¼” x ¾”. Inside are two brass weights and the two brass pans. The pans were originally attached with thin strings, which now are broken. However, they can be easily replaced if desired.

The weighing of money has been practiced since biblical times. Weighing coins of gold or silver is known from the Roman times. Scales for this purpose had to be accurate on the one hand and small enough to be easily transported from one place to another, on the other. Most money scales, therefore, have their own, usually, fitted, metal or wood containers

This set of balance scales appears complete, even having the tiny weights still present. In the “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution”, there are examples of this set, as well as in the Colonial Williamsburg Museum (see pictures). During the Revolutionary War scales such as this would be needed to figure out the ongoing confusion with coinage coming from different countries. This would make a nice addition to any collection.

With the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding this year, interest in the Revolutionary War and its relics are significantly increasing. This renewed enthusiasm is driving the demand for virtually all Revolutionary War artifacts, further contributing to their scarcity and rising prices.