Late 19th Century English Copper 4 Gallon Liquid Measure

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A traditional English copper liquid measure with a four gallon volume dating from the late 19th century. This shape is … Read more A traditional English copper liquid measure with a four gallon volume dating from the late 19th century. This shape is commonly called a "haystack measure" because its shape is similar to that of an English haystack. Merchants who sold goods by volume were required to have a government certified measure. These measures were made by coppersmiths and were then taken to the county weights and measures office where they were tested against the official measures and if found to be accurate received a certification stamp in the form of a lead patch with the government seal on the pouring spout, see photo. This measure has been recently polished but has some minor tarnish and the bumps and dings associated with age and use. Its certified volume of four gallons is stamped on the front. See less