Found this forged tool at a old mining site, probably abandoned in the early 1900's, near Prescott AZ. I found this in the late 70's. Mines in that area were for copper and silver with a little gold.
It is forged by a blacksmith, has a curved end that is obviously the working end, the other eye end is for hanging on the wall.
Any ideas???
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Being that it’s short hard to say. Similar tools were made to move coke in the forge. Blacksmiths may come up with an idea in their head for something, and make a tool for that application.
I agree on some special tool needed by the individual artisan. It does not appear to be able to lift much , but I would say a tool to dig other tools and pieces of iron out of the fire....
It may be a coal rake, I used on very much like it for many years, works great for dragging coke to where you need it in your forge, and if you turn it over it's a good hammer for breaking up coke, That's my guess. Rio7
I know little of old mine operations but it seems short for a rake or spoon. Most tools had a hook for hanging on nail or peg. The extra work of making an eye might indicate a pivot point for a latch or catch of some kind. I hope in a hundred years someone will dig up something I beat out an wonder what the hell was he thinking.
How long is it? if it is about 4 inches it could be a hoof pick to clean out horse and mules feet.. if it is like 4 feet long it is for using in a forge as suggested by others.
I know little of old mine operations but it seems short for a rake or spoon. Most tools had a hook for hanging on nail or peg. The extra work of making an eye might indicate a pivot point for a latch or catch of some kind. I hope in a hundred years someone will dig up something I beat out an wonder what the hell was he thinking.
Here's a pic of what Beagle was talking about. It's a good guess.
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