Hinged metal piece

[PalmettoPride]

I found this in an area that was settled in the 1730's. The picture was taken after electrolysis, and the reference coin is a nickel.

Any ideas?
Thanks

 

Amazon Forum Fav 👍

DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector, Waterproof Gold Detector, Pinpoint & Terrain Modes, Professional Metal Detector - Grab it through Amazon!

[PalmettoPride]

 

[SkaBa]

That is a square chain link to a farm implement, horse drawn era.

 

[DCMatt]

That is a square chain link to a farm implement, horse drawn era.

SkaBa wins a cigar!

Possibly a maure spreader chain link. Maybe early 20th C. Although they may still make some like that...

 

[PalmettoPride]

Thanks!

 

[TheCannonballGuy]

SkaBa is basically correct... specifically, it is a link from a roller-chain, a type of chain often used on farming equipment but also other uses, from the latter-1800s through today, as seen in this modern "in-use" photo. The other photo shows two roller-chain links connected.

After posting, I see that DCMatt and I were typing our replies at the same time.