Found this a few inches down at a place that's produced both modern and very old stuff. It seems modern, but it's tough to say. It's definitely heavy and it measures about 2 1/2 inches.
I see WW2 era squadron art depicting a bat wielding a baton or sword flying out of the sun. So maybe a swagger stick topper once carried by a flyboy? Cool find! Sub
Funny you mention the belaying pin, you're the second person to say that. Also, it was found in a very old Long Island seaside town. It just seems modern, though. When did they begin casting zinc or pewter?