Postal scales were introduced in the mid 19th Century after Rowland Hill (the founder of the postage stamp) suggested that letters should be charged by weight rather than number of pages. After this, most wealthy homes had their own set as the latest piece of technology!
This auction is for a stunning and large set of vintage brass postal scales on a serpentine edge hardwood base. This set was made by Day & Millward. William Chambers Day is recorded at 118 Suffolk Street, Birmingham from about 1829. The firm was known as Day & Co. from about 1850 onwards. The name William Chambers Day is seen on coin weights of about 1842 and the company was amalgamated with the firm of John Millward in 1852.
The set has a set of weights from 1lb to 1/4 oz. The mahogany base has four wooden bun feet. The letter plate has the postal rates in use between 1871 and 1897. The scales measure 12″ by 7″ by 6†high.
A highly collectable piece of history and a great decorative item.
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