Coin Op & Advertising - Spring Classic Part 1 - Day 3
Lot 2210:
Description
This is a quintessential example of a 19th-century style “Temple” toggle-head whaling harpoon, a revolutionary design in maritime history that allowed the head to pivot 90 degrees once embedded. The piece features a 7-inch cast brass head with a distinct pivoting barb, securely pinned to a slender iron rod. The rod is socketed into a substantial 2.5-inch diameter wooden shaft, which is traditionally wrapped in tarred marline and rigged with a heavy hemp line. This piece captures the rugged utility of the American whaling industry; while many were made of iron, the brass head suggests a high-quality manufacture or a specialized purpose. The item is in good antique condition, showing a deep, authentic patina on the brass, expected oxidation on the iron components, and minor checking and surface wear to the wooden shaft consistent with age and maritime use. H 72″, W 2.5″, D 2.5″
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