I have been a Tool collector of all types for over 35 years and I just cannot remember how i acquired it. 

 

It is very Odd because I just can't think of any application where this tool would be of any use ,(apart from Pricking, )and i dont recall where I acquired it or when ?

 ( I am getting  on a bit ! )

The handle is Horn i think , it doesn't really look like any wood I've seen before. 

The Ferrule is Brass and the Pricker Guide is Copper with a large amount of Brass content. 

The Cap on the base of the handle is Brass aswell. 

I did open it up a few years ago , i seem to remember an old handmade spring . It is Entirely up to you to interpret your own opinion about its use . It is Old and obviously hand made . ( I wouldn't go smaking it with a hammer or chasing poor old women around is my point . ) 

As a Collectable or Original of possible dubious Origin and use , do be careful with it, PLEASE. !

As a Strange Collectable it would be good addition , but if you believe in it then , treat it with the respect it may deserve as a peice of our terrible history .

James 1st  , Hopkins and Sterne...a dreadfull and shamefully backwards people of awful prejudice .

Please Study the photographs carefully as they are part of the condition report and thank you for looking.