I found this in the yard of an early 1900's house this weekend. Didn't think much of it until last night when I noticed some writing on it. Best I can tell it says "MARCH 9, 1915". I think there are letters before that that may say PAT, for patent. It's brass and is hinged at the back. Check valve maybe? The penny is for scale. I tried searching patent dates but I don't think you can search just the date before 1973-1974. Thanks.
