John Sheldon – Telescopic Letter Balance

John Sheldon’s pocket telescopic letter balance. Made of German silver and dating to c1845. This is an English version (there were 4 other variations for overseas use) and it has both monetary and weighing systems. It is graduated in 1/2 oz increments up to 3 oz and has corresponding rates of 2D (up to 1 oz), 4D (up to 2 oz), and 6D (up to 3 oz). Brian George’s book on Sheldon includes a nice description of the letter balance and indicates that the design was registered on May 13, 1845 (RD27500). There is a tiny split to the barrel along the seam but otherwise perfect.