Choice and very rare American COMPASS by G. KING

Choice and very rare antique American pocket compass made in Boston circa 1820's. The compass card was printed by the famous Boston engraver Abel Bowen (1790-1850, signed on the Fleur-de-Lis) for Gedney King II (1777-1839) of Boston. The initial "W" is hand craved on the back - possible owners identification.

King constructed the compass using a solid mahogany lid (banded on both ends with brass to present warping. The mahogany base is inset with the compass and has its original wavy glass, brass retaining ring, steel pointer, brass hinges and double brass closing hooks. The compass card is in remarkably fine condition.

The entire case has its original surface with a deep rich patina. The brass set bar has an opposing pin set into the lid. Research shows no other similar compass of this size and quality.

Size: An exceptional 5 inches square. SOLD