RARE AND FASCINATING McKINLEY MECHANICAL GOLD BUG WITH SIX MOVING LEGS LAPEL STUD.
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Winning Bid:
$366.85
(Includes 15% Buyer's Premium)
Bidding Ended:
Tuesday, March 15, 2016 10:00:00 PM (20 Minute Clock Begins At Tuesday, March 15, 2016 10:00:00 PM)
Item Description
This is a most unusual piece from 1896. The piece is 13/16" diameter and 7/16" deep. Starting from the reverse there is a circular brass piece on a shaft similar to the typical lapel stud. However, the shaft joins to a circular brass compartment covered on the front by a piece of glass which has a narrow beveled outer edge. The bottom of the compartment is lined in gold foil. Invisibly mounted within the space of the compartment is a bug constructed of unknown materials designed more or less as a June beetle with eight vertical lines on its back and other tiny details including tiny eyes. Beneath the bugs' shell are six insect shaped legs which all individually quiver or move when the lapel stud is moved the slightest bit. The movement of these six legs at the slightest touch is amazingly realistic. The glass cover has the very slightest trace of cloudiness to it but this is mentioned solely for complete accuracy as all the details and all the bizarre motion produced is easily visible. A fascinating rarity and the only example seen in five decades
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