Dip Needle, Dip cheapest Circle, Dipping Needle, Antique Mining Instrument, Antique Surveyors Instrument, 19th Century

Handheld dip needle with double brass caps. Also known as a dipping needle or a dip circle.
Brass frame and lids, 19th century. There is a small pin located on the side of the frame, when removed the needle moves freely.

Condition Notes: There is some wear and staining on the brass, due to age. Please, see photos for condition.

This instrument was used in prospecting and mining to measure the angle between the horizon and the Earth's magnetic field (the dip cheapest angle). While holding the device by the brass ring attached to the top and pointing the compass towards North, one end of the needle will dip down in the presence of iron, ferrous or other magnetic material. Likewise, the other end of the needle will dip down in the presence of deposits of non-ferrous minerals, such as copper, silver and gold.