Historical information

Understood to have been used in Linton c.1864. Information provided in 1993 by Russell McDonagh Bennett suggests these scales may also have been used at Dawsons Dam mine c.1907-1909.

Physical description

Beam scales used for weighing gold. Scales consist of two circular metal dishes, each supported by three wires suspended from a metal balance (beam), which in turn is linked to and supported by a vertical metal stand. A lever attached to the stand can be used to move the weighing dishes vertically and horizontally. The scales are mounted on a rectangular wooden box with a sliding drawer which is divided into three compartments.

Inscriptions & markings

Maker's marks stamped on dishes, lever and stand. Date "1863" stamped on lever, also (in smaller letters) "10.8.1864".