“Not sure what this is, but the patent dates to 1863. It’s an unusual brass gauge, numbered 1–12. One side reads ‘Roston,’ the other seems to say W Hall. There’s a 38 at the top and a small pin on the side that lets the center flip or move. Any thoughts?”

A Small Brass Object That Revealed an Unexpected Piece of History
Posted onJanuary 19, 2026 ByadminNo Commentson A Small Brass Object That Revealed an Unexpected Piece of History
At first glance, the object looked like a measuring tool—perhaps an old gauge from the 19th century. Its solid weight, twelve numbered brass tabs, and a small side pin all suggested something designed for precision. That assumption changed instantly upon noticing a stamped patent date from 1863. What initially appeared ordinary turned out to be…

At first glance, the object looked like a measuring tool—perhaps an old gauge from the 19th century. Its solid weight, twelve numbered brass tabs, and a small side pin all suggested something designed for precision. That assumption changed instantly upon noticing a stamped patent date from 1863. What initially appeared ordinary turned out to be something far more intriguing, prompting a closer look at its true purpose.

The item is, in fact, an early brass combination lock created by W. Hall and patented in Boston during the American Civil War. Designed to secure small personal belongings such as trunks or lockboxes, it features a simple loop for attachment rather than built-in installation. Unlike modern locks, it uses no keys or rotating dials. Instead, security depends entirely on the precise positioning of twelve numbered brass tabs.