brass acorn - SOLVED

[Steve001]

What was this object used for?
Thanks

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

I found the patent for this watch protector if anyone is interested, number 1450848:

http://www.google.com/patents?id=N4...ook_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCgQ6AEwAA

When I first saw this thing I thought it was supposed to prick the fingers of pickpockets but the patent says that the spikes are supposed to catch in the fabric of the pocket, as someone here already stated.

Very old post. Nice research on the patent. This puts a date on it.

Im reposting your patent find here for future record and easier viewing.

 

[ConceptualizedNetherlandr]

Necro Thread Diggin' for Mike

Sure, that is what it was 'originally' designed for. But, do you know why there are so few to be found anymore?

People started to use them as retribution devices. Plated them in gold and hung them like a charm on their Pandora bracelets occupied by real valuables.

They coated the spikes with poisons or what not and dangled them from a longer attachment than the expensive goods. They flash their nuts around in everybody's faces with reckless abandon until the vic grabs the nut.

Game over.

 

[bradyboy]

Finally !!!
Awesome ID
Brady

 

[texasred777]

And this thread still hasn't been 'locked'? Gee, we might get some more replies to it! I'd certainly like to have one of the acorns. 'Course it would probably cost more than I'd be willing to pay.

 

[CoilyGirl]

Okay so please spare me the grizzly task of reading all the replies.what is this thang in a nutshell? I found something very much like it over the Summer.

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

Okay so please spare me the grizzly task of reading all the replies.what is this thang in a nutshell? I found something very much like it over the Summer.

Its a late 19th Century device designed to stop the owners watch being taken from his pocket. Small silver acorn shaped linked with three concealed prongs. When pulled the prongs extend to catch in the fabric of the pocket (or make it hard to pull from pocket)