Original Item: One-of-a-kind. This is a very powerful object, not only referring to its capabilities but to its obvious age and place in Maritime history.

The British Naval pay scale was established in 1658 and basically remained unchanged for almost 140 years. There was zero inflation up until the 7 years war (1756-1763) known as the French and Indian War in the United States. However by the end of the 1700s with increasing British Government debt Naval pay was well behind causing great unpopularity. This led to two mutinies, that at Spithead near Portsmouth and at The Nore in the Thames Basin in London, both occurring in 1797.

It had become so bad that NO ONE volunteered any more to serve in his Majesty's Men of War. As a result potential recruits were found in Pubs, brothels and on the streets of any coastal city that might be persuaded to enlist. This "Cosh" was one of those "persuaders"! Made with a flexible core with weighted ends, the exterior was wrapped with a woven cover, making it an ideal small weapon.

Many a Sailor awoke out "At Sea" never knowing what hit him to find himself now in the Royal Navy.

This impressive example measures only 12 1/2" but when you feel it in your hand it can certainly be seen to be "A Persuader". It is made with a flexible core made from twisted whalebone (baleen) fibers, with heavy lead ends. Originally the ends were completely wrapped in woven fabric, however one end is missing about 50% of the cover, while the other end just has some tearing. There is some cracking and splitting of the whalebone handle, and the internal piece inside the twisted handle has cracked through completely near the smaller end.

A wonderful self defense weapon!