Bidspirit auction | 1861 USPS Beehive String Holder

1861 USPS Beehive String Holder - 1861 USPS Beehive String Holder, cast iron government issued string holder embossed ”PROPERTY OF THE U.S. P.O. DEPT”, dates back to Civil War era, used to pull cotton twine to bundle mailbags and wrap postal packages before adhesive tape existed, most post office equipment was turned back in or destroyed, government-stamped versions are significantly rarer, bottom loading plate intact, lettering is legible, aged dark iron patina, minor surface scuffing, minor flaking, cast iron shell shows no signs of hairline fractures, good condition, see photos. 7 1/2” x 7” x 7”