Set of original bronze nested weights, circa 1690 – 1780, examples in museums and books

Being offered is a rare set of original bronze nested weights, ca. 1690 – 1780. It measures 2 ¾” x 2” x 1 7/8” and inside are four cups and one solid piece. The hinged top is secured by a locking pin. The entire set weighs slightly over one pound.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, scales were primarily used for weighing goods in trade and commerce, as well as for scientific and medicinal purposes. They were also used to measure coins and other precious metals.

Nested weights were ideal for the merchant as they required a minimum of space. A set consists of cups of descending weight and size, which fit inside one another. The largest cup of the set weighs as much as all the other cups, and each following weight weighs half the amount of the next largest weight.

Between the 16th and 18th centuries, Nuremberg held a monopoly on their production and had a specialized guild for their makers. Only in the late 18th century did other countries begin to manufacture them.

These identical sets are well documented, having one in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and in the Brandeis University Special Collections (see pictures). In “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution”, by Neumann & Kravic, there is a set of these weights that were recovered at Crown Point, NY, validating their use during the war (see pictures).

Just as a side note, there is a set of these weights listed online by an antique dealer priced at over $1600.00 (see pictures). Personally, I believe the asking price on that set is kind of high, I know they are rare, but that’s not how I do my pricing.  As with all my items, I price them according to what I paid and offer them at a fair price. This set is in excellent and solid condition.

Throughout history, war has been a constant presence, shaping civilizations and societies. From the earliest days of humanity, conflict has persisted in various forms, and based on historical patterns, it is likely to continue in some manner. This ongoing reality has given rise to a deep fascination among historians and collectors who seek to understand the past through the tangible remnants left behind, i.e. uniforms, guns, swords, artillery.

While significant attention is given to weapons and military gear, the everyday items used by soldiers frequently go unnoticed. Simple objects like forks, spoons, cups, dishes, pots, and knives played an essential role in a soldier’s daily life. These items were as precious to the individual as their weapon, serving practical needs and providing comfort amidst the hardships of war. I myself have always appreciated their importance in showing a complete representation of a collection.   Bob