From the Age of Sail! AMERICAN SAILING SHIP BELAYING PIN

19th century, probably the first half. Turned oak, 16 5/8” length with tapered top, flared shoulder and cylindrical foot their chamfered edge to facilitate insertion into the pin rail. Used on sail ships to secure lines and with well-known secondary use as a weapon. Often used for extemporaneous discipline by ship officers and the primary weapon of mutinies by crews, which were rigidly restricted from lethal weapons of any kind. Iconic and deserving of a place in a weapons collection. Excellent well used condition.