postal balance, maker S. Mordan & Co.
This balance was made by Sampson Mordan & Co. of London, England. The name and place are inscribed on the front beam of the balance. The scale construction features the Mordan characteristics: steel bearing bushings, connecting rods halfway between the beams, vertical uprights under the platforms, and all components thicker than strictly necessary. The two round-head mounting screws of the letter plate appear to be replacements for the original countersunk screws. Over the years, the balance has become soiled by remnants of copper polish and looks used.
The letter plate lists the English postal rates for letters to various destinations. The domestic letter rate dates this letter scale to the relatively short period from November 1, 1915, to June 3, 1918.
The dimensions of the wooden base are 21 x 11.5 x 2.3 centimeters. The weight platform is 4.6 cm in diameter. The letter platform measures 8.0 x 7.0 cm. The balance is 9.0 cm high on the central frame.
Below are some more photos of this Mordan postal balance.
back of the postal balance
