This is a small rectangular cardboard box containing a single fine (0.0007″) gold thread 5.5cm long. The thread is strung between cardboard supports and each end is slightly thicker and appears silver.
Accession Number: 2018.ast.56
Alternative Name: Thread for Filar Micrometer
Primary Materials: Cardboard, Metal: Gold, Other
On the box label”LEEDS & NORTHRUP COMPANY
4901 STENTON AVENUE
PHILADELPHIA, PA”
“0.0007 AU STRIP 24K”
Written on the box in coloured pencil: “Sid 66 3F”
Dimensions (cm): Height = 2, Width = 3.5, Length = 15.5.
This wire is for use in a filar micrometer used for taking measurements between objects in astronomical instruments.
Excellent: The box is in good condition, with very slightly wear and discolouration. The gold thread inside is intact.
Associated Instruments:
Manufacturer: Leeds & Northrup Company
Date of Manufacture: Early-Mid 20th Century
This object was likely moved from the David Dunlap Observatory in Richmond Hill in 2008, upon the sale of the observatory. It was stored at the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics until 2017, when it was moved to a new storage location in McLennan Physical Laboratories.
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