S/3414 Antique 19th Century Whale Bone Priming Iron

An extremely rare early 19th century priming iron made of whale bone. These were used on the gundeck when going into action. After loading the powder cartridge and ball, it was then pushed down into the priming hole to pierce the powder cartridge, so that the lighted taper could ignite the powder, and hence fire the cannon. The centre collar allowed it to go just deep enough to pierce the cartridge.

Sold 7 in. (18 cm.) Wide
¾ in. (2 cm.) Deep
English Circa 1820