Holsboer letter scale
This 55.5 centimeters tall letter scale bears the name and the location of the maker at the top left of the scale: FIRMA B. HOLSBOER ARNHEM. The scale up to 200 grams is subdivided per gram. Striking are the number 2 under 200 grams and the number 1 at the line of 15 grams. The meaning of this is simple: up to 15 grams 1 stamp is sufficient, above that up to 200 grams 2 stamps are needed, this for domestic letter franking. In the book Binnenlandse en Internationale Posttarieven van Nederland 1850-1990 by Mr. W.S. da Costa can be found that this was valid from April 1, 1892 to October 1, 1908. The postage required was 5 cents through 15 grams, and 10 cents (2x5) through 200 grams. On the previously shown Holsboer letter scales, the 100 grams and the 250 grams, this letter postage designation is also used. These letter scales can be dated to earlier periods, see the relevant pages and the photos at the bottom of this page.
Several parts of this letter balance have the number 79. The letter plateau and the main shaft of the scale were probably moderately repaired at one time, because the measurement accuracy is now unfortunately insufficient. The letter scale can, of course, serve as an object in a museum.
Further on this page are some advertisements and a newspaper report about the company B. Holsboer. The factory was opened on August 3, 1867. The founder was Berend Holsboer (1832 - 1895†). From February 1883, the company was allowed to use the Royal Coat of Arms of the Royal Supplier.
Below some more images of this letter scale or, as indicated by Holsboer himself, this letter balance.
back of the letter scale
