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!

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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.