Help Identifying this bronze piece

[99*]

I need help Identifying this bronze piece, I have found several each on a different site never more than one, maybe its an omen or maybe only one was used on each ship, just too narrow to be placed above a gudgeon, maybe hammered into the hull like a fastner , my question is where in the hull was it hammered into if this is the case or where on the ship could it have been, I need some help from the pros as I am tracking a vessel over a mile distance so far from wrecking and finally I found another one of these, it would help if I knew I was going in the right direction.99*

[bobinsd]

What size is it? Weight?

[99*]

3.5 inches wide x 6 inches long....any ideas? what about Donovan, you must have seen these..99*

[Roupfire]

My best guess would be for fastening a rub rail on the outside of the hull sheating. When fastening these, you want it to move if subjected to a heavy load. A good source to help you I.D. this piece is Mystic Seaport museum in Mystic CT. Good luck hunting.