letter scale

Because of its shape this letter scale is named swan neck. This is because the neck is clearly longer than the "goose neck" scales, for example, see this Loth letter scale. On the scale is the name of the maker: J. Cooke & Sons makers, London. Special of this letter scale are the separate indications of 1/3 oz. [9.45g is approximately 10g] and 2/3 oz. [18.9g is approximately 20g] for letters to France. Since June 14, 1833 a treaty between Great Britain and France existed, a Convention Postale, with mutual complicated tariff rules. met onderlinge ingewikkelde tariefafspaken. That agreement was finally withdrawn in 1875. Within France the postal letter weight limit of 7½g was changed to 10g starting January 1, 1862. Deze weger dateert daarom vermoedelijk uit de periode 1862-1875. Therefore this letter scale probably dates from the period 1862-1875. The total length of the scale inclusive the suspension ring is 180 millimeters. The dial diameter is 62 millimeters. The plate thickness is only 0.5 millimeters. This letter scale itself weighs 21 grams. The scale is made of brass. The letter clip is made of spring steel.
Below some more images of this letter scale made in London by J. Cooke & Sons.