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Brass Sovereign Coin Balance for Detecting Counterfeit Gold Coins – England, 19th Century - Antique pocket rocker balance made of brass, designed for testing British gold sovereign and half-sovereign coins. The balance incorporates two slotted coin receptacles marked “SOVEREIGN WARRANTED” and “½ SOVEREIGN”, an integral counterweight and stamped crown devices. Such instruments were used by merchants and bankers to check whether a coin corresponded to the prescribed weight, diameter and thickness, helping detect underweight, clipped or counterfeit coins. An English type probably dating from the first to middle part of the 19th century. Similar examples are attributed to Harrison of Birmingham; however, no clearly legible maker’s name is visible, so a firm Harrison attribution cannot be made. Length: 9.5 cm. Patina, wear, scratches and signs of use consistent with age. Accuracy has not been tested. Please examine the photographs for condition.