Gravesend and Milton - A set of four measures

A rare set of four George IV brass alloy measures for Gravesend and Milton, dated 1826

Maker unknown, comprising Imperial Bushel, Imperial Half Bushel, Imperial Peck and Imperial Gallon, all numbered 223, engraved with date, the largest engraved 'In the Mayoralty of Wm Gladdish EsqR, Wm ThoS Bennett Chamberlain' and engraved with the Coat of Arms of Gravesend. Earliest legible verification mark for 1880, and with crowned VR, GVIR and ER cyphers. Largest 49cm diameter (width 59cm including handles) (4)

Gravesend and Milton has an extensive history of cargo inspection, due to its situation on the North Kent coast of the Thames estuary, at the entrance to the Port of London. The first 'Searcher of the Thames' was John Page, appointed by Edward III in 1356, and ships were required to stop at Gravesend for their captains to swear on the 'Plague Bible' that there was no illness onboard. Gravesend's arms were granted in 1635, the same year that James, Duke of Lennox was appointed the first High Steward of Gravesend. William Gladdish was a Fellow of the Royal Geological Society and a lime merchant, and William Bennett a butcher.

Postage: Not Postable

Condition Report:
There are typical minor scuffs / dents / scratches and marks. Not all stamped marks are mentioned in the cataloguing, and some may be indistinct / rubbed.

Probably re-lacquered and possibly re-finished

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Condition reports are offered as a guide only and we highly recommend inspecting any lot to satisfy yourself as to its condition and finish.