This listing is for an Antique Stanhope Civil War Bullet Fob Peep Photo HighWater Mark Monument PA Rare. This extremely rare watch fob features a civil war era bullet with an inset stanhope photo viewer. The mini photo depicts the High Water Mark Monument (I believe in PA) on Hancock avenue looking south.
Obviously better in person- please forgive the photos! In front, a cannon of some kind is by the memorial.
Sometimes called a peep photo or a "stanho-scope" this fun bit of 19th century photographic technology was invented in the 1850s, when it was basically discovered that using microscope style lenses turned backward allowed the user to take an incredibly small photograph, which could be used in an optical illusion with a tiny convex lens. They were very popular, and still are- but I have never seen fobs like these. This one was likely made when the memorial officially opened, in 1910. It may have been a bullet a soldier picked up right off a battlefield- but of course I cannot prove this.
The design is excellent for many collections and a wide range of genres. It makes this an excellent staple piece for your collection, one your friends definitely won't have! I have 2 of these rare pieces available, the other has a different photo, please feel free to check its listing out as well.
A great collectors item, for use display gifting or decor. It is in good condition, with no major damage. Has some wear from presumably being used as intended before being made into the viewer. Lens has some light wear- photo still very visible. See photos, obviously much better in person.
Thank you for your consideration, I appreciate your time. Comes as shown, please see photos for details and measurements.