Historical information

The pocket balance was first created in 1770 by Richard Salter in the UK. From the late 18th century onwards these small scales were widely used in markets, grocers and farm shops – wherever people needed to be able to verify the weight of goods to be purchased in order to calculate the correct pricing. Because it was portable, and simple to use, the pocket balance was ideal for weighing goods where accuracy was not required.
This balance appears to have been used for weighing fish.

Physical description

Pocket spring scales made of steel. There is a spring fixed at one end with a hook to which an object can be attached at the other.
At the top of the scales there. is a metallic ring to fasten the object. This is attached to the main body which on one side has measurements inscribed into the metal surface. Inside the body is a spring loaded mechanism which moves along the scales when weight is added to a hook at the bottom of the shaft.

Inscriptions & markings

At the top - POCKET BALANCE
ARROW and the letters M P inside an oval.