Copper capsule I dug - Any ideas?

[Exintrick]

I dug this while MDing a friends rural property yesterday (central OK) and I'm turning to the experts of eccentricities for some ID help. It appears be two copper pieces joined together like a pill capsule. It's pretty battered so hard to tell for sure, but it looks like these fit together snug like one side is a slightly smaller diameter and was made to go inside the other. I've tried opening it but it won't budge with mere human strength. The ends are rounded and it appears to have been perfectly cylindrical before it was crushed. It also looks like there is a small amount something, maybe fabric, peeking out from the seam on one side. There are no markings that I can discern.

I've done some research already trying to get an idea, and the closest things I've come up with are a pocket shrine, or a carrier pigeon capsule, but neither one seems to fit the bill. It weighs 11g which seems to be heavier than just the copper. Pretty sure it's filled, though probably just with dirt. Anyone seen something like this before?



Any thoughts on ID or ideas for opening are much appreciated!

Exintrick

 

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[duggap]

Carrying the spare tip of an ink pen? Can you get it open?

 

[Exintrick]

I haven't been able to get it open yet. Thinking about sticking the narrower half in ice water and see if that contracts it enough, but with the crushing I think it may end up having to be cut open.

I did just try a refrigerator magnet on it and there was no attraction. But then I tried a rare earth magnet and it sticks lightly so there must be some kind of ferrous material inside. Now I'm even more curious.

 

[Mud Hut]

I am thinking it might be a Victrola needle container.

 

[Ocean7]

lead container for a mechanical lead pencil?

 

[Mainiac]

Your answer may only come from opening the capsule, but I'm sure you will want to do so very carefully so as not to damage it. Simply applying brute force to separate the halves would not seem prudent. You might try immersing the capsule in a solution such as acetone, which will only dissolve organic compounds. Acetone will not affect metals, but only organic compounds, which appear to be preventing the separation of the capsule halves. Acetone is the primary ingredient in nail polish remover, which can be used if needed, but small quantities (pints or quarts) of relatively pure acetone can be acquired at any paint store, or even Walmart. Just be sure to use the acetone outdoors, in a well ventilated area, and remember that acetone is quite volatile. Do not use indoors, breathe the vapors, or use near any fire or flame. And be sure to cover the acetone container securely, as it will evaporate.

Your comment about carrier pigeon capsules intrigues me. One can only wonder what message might be found inside. If you do get the capsule open, please re-post here and let us know what you find.

 

[Mainiac]

"I am thinking it might be a Victrola needle container."

A very good suggestion. Some of us are old enough to remember those.

 

[NOLA_Ken]

I have one very similar to yours with a tiny figurine of a saint inside. That would be my guess.

 

[WawaDuane]

I have seen similar things with lipstick in them....small sampler or something like that.

 

[RJ55]

If you see carrier pigeons circling over head that means that it is call waiting.

 

[Exintrick]

I am thinking it might be a Victrola needle container.

That would be so cool!! I'm an avid record collector, even owned a record store in the past, so that would put me over the moon. It would also explain the slight magnetic attraction. I googled it and all the ones I found pics of were more ornate (sewing needle cases too), but I want to believe! Think I'm gonna go give opening another try. Will report back if it goes well.

 

[TNGUNS]

I have one very similar to yours with a tiny figurine of a saint inside. That would be my guess.

I also dug a similar one in trenches of what I hoped was a CW camp. Turned out to be a WWII training camp. Contained a sterling statue of Christ. One of the many relics I really regret letting go. A simple case of a person wanting it more than I did at the time.

 

[stefen]

Brass and nickle-plated caps were quite familar in the pre-1970's drafting world and were part of ink and pencil drafting tool sets...

(some were bakelite)

Used to contain lead and compass points...

Sewing machine needles, Victrolia and other similar uses too...

I've also seen wood turned containers, as well...

 

[Exintrick]

You might try immersing the capsule in a solution such as acetone, which will only dissolve organic compounds. Acetone will not affect metals, but only organic compounds, which appear to be preventing the separation of the capsule halves.

I have some acetone, but doing this worries me since I don't know what is inside. I also don't know if it would have an effect on the patina.

Then again, it may be better than cutting it, which seems my only option right now. I tried the smaller size in ice water. Nothing. I've wiggled and pulled and absolutely no movement. It's small and hard to get a grip on, and I don't want to squeeze any harder for fear of squishing it more.

 

[BigWaveDave]

Suppository

 

[Mud Hut]

I have some acetone, but doing this worries me since I don't know what is inside. I also don't know if it would have an effect on the patina.

Then again, it may be better than cutting it, which seems my only option right now. I tried the smaller size in ice water. Nothing. I've wiggled and pulled and absolutely no movement. It's small and hard to get a grip on, and I don't want to squeeze any harder for fear of squishing it more.

Try a hair dryer on it

 

[Exintrick]

Suppository

Believe it or not, my friends and I already discussed that!

Try a hair dryer on it

Haircut: clippers, #1 guard, all-over. I don't need no steenking hairdryer! However, I do have a heat gun in the shop. Even better. I'll give it a try.

 

[TNGUNS]

Suppository

LMBO....... HA....... You are a bad man....... and good at it.

 

[Mainiac]

My experience with acetone comes from the coin collecting hobby, and spans several decades. I have come to learn that acetone does not affect the patina, or toning, of coins, and should not do so on your capsule, either. It will only react with organic compounds, and patina or toning are not organic. Also, if you place the capsule in acetone for short periods of time, it may not leach inside the capsule, but only dissolve the crud that prevents it from being opened. Dip it in acetone, remove it and try to open it, and if needed repeat the process, even several times.

 

[releventchair]

Maniac's method sounds sound with proper ventilation.

Not knowing its contents makes it harder to decide for sure.Forced to open it I would put largest diameter at joint lowest in a holder leaving joint exposed. Then paint joint at least once a day with transmission fluid. After a few days apply gentle torque opposite ways with padded channel lock pliers with out scarring or crushing, trying for a couple millimeters of movement then repainting a couple more days.. If no movement repeat. Have done similar on rusted brake lines before.