Pair of scales, found in Sandby village, Öland

These scales are almost complete. They are made up of two scale pans, a bar, pointers and hangers. The chains are modern additions. Scales of this type were used to weigh silver with precision when making payments. They fitted inside a small box and could be transported anywhere. A steady hand was required to use them. The weight was placed in one scale pan, the silver in the other. These were placed on the scales and then removed again until the bar was balanced.

Image rights: Jens Mohr, Historiska museet/SHM (CC BY 4.0)

Object number: 181492_HST

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