Lead Seal?, Some sort of pipes.

[jgas]

Found these at the place where I found the 1883 Dog Tags. The lead stamped thing was easily 10 inches down.

The pipe thing was about 6 inches down. Just wondering if anyone might have a guess. The lead thing is smaller than a dime. Thanks for the help... jgas

 

[johnnyi]

jgas, offhand I'd say it's the valve tubes to a trumpet or similar brass wind instrument.

 

[Montana Jim]

jgas, offhand I'd say it's the valve tubes to a trumpet or similar brass wind instrument.

I agree!

Also, yes, you are right it's a lead bag/bale seal

 

[traderoftreasures]

there was a p. company in vietnam. what is the time era associated with the dog tags?

 

[traderoftreasures]

bugle ?.....

 

[jgas]

Hey Montana, the tags were found at an old farmstead dated late 1800's. Near the back yard 6 inches down and all together. Actually in the county that I found them.

Johnyi: the pipes are very heavy by the way. I thought the same thing too but man that would have to have been a backbreaker when all together...But, could be...Thanks for the replies.....jgas

 

[johnnyi]

jgas, the valve pipes are the thickest brass on a horn. They'll be heavier.

 

[jgas]

Oh yes, call me stupid now.....what and how would they have used the seal thing? DUH.....?? jgas

 

[Montana Jim]

Oh yes, call me stupid now.....what and how would they have used the seal thing? DUH.....?? jgas

I'm not sure if your asking or realizing... lol, So I'll explain quickly for others who might be wondering.

Simply, the lead seal would have been used to secure a wire used to wrap around a small bale of cloth/cotton, or used to close a bag or grain or mail (or anything else). The wires would be used like a twist-tie and then the lead would have been melted/pressed over the wire to secure the ends together. The seal would be marked to show ownership or for security reasons, or to indicate the new owner during shipping.

The best modern day example is the little plastic seal on your house's power meter.

See these other examples: http://ourpasthistory.com/Gallery/bagseals

 

[jgas]

Thanks for the enlightenment Montana...I appreciate the help in the search for knowledge... jgas

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

MJ is correct, I think its the wire type of seal. I see rust.

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

jgas, offhand I'd say it's the valve tubes to a trumpet or similar brass wind instrument.

I think this is solved. The tops of the tubes are threaded for the button assemblies or whatever they are called.