Need help with identifying this object

[BradnBlake]

Found behind mid 1800s farmhouse with small Civil War connection. Only about 5" deep in heavy clay.

Non-ferrous, two-piece thin metal shell "sandwiching" what appears to be leather or a similar material. Nickel shown for size reference.
Photos show after electrolysis. No markings and pattern is not symmetric -- might be simple corrosion. There are a few pins /tiny rivets holding the metal shell pieces together. It looks like one half fits into the other and can rotate. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!

View attachment 1844555 View attachment 1844556 View attachment 1844557 View attachment 1844560

 

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[Raider19962]

Looks like the hinge on one of those old time rulers (like my dad used to have).


Welcome to the club and good luck!

 

[tokameel]

Good photos, BradnBlake. Welcome to T-Nnet!

 

[ARC]

Looks like the hinge on one of those old time rulers (like my dad used to have).
View attachment 1844579

Welcome to the club and good luck!

Correct.

 

[BradnBlake]

Yep, I think you nailed it, Raider! Good eye. Mystery solved -- thanks.