Description
The London Science Museum has a similar device on their site, which they date c1920, but theirs is gold-plated brass not solid 14ct gold. Gold was less problematic because it is inert. They describe it as”A type of early intrauterine device (IUD) also known as a cervicouterine device or pessary. Curved disk with long coil stem attached to plate of disk. Coil opens into a wishbone shape with two arms. Arms are held together during insertion ( https://digital.sciencehistory.org/works/jq085k79n) Prior to the 1960s contraceptive devices could not be sent through the mails. IUDs were sold as pessaries,i.e., devices to support a prolapsed uterus. The C1920 example we are offering has a solid 14ct gold disc ( wire portions are heavily gold plated) and is in very good condition. It is 2” or 5cm in length as shown.
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Dealer information
M and R Gordon
Michael and Roberta Gordon have been dealing in medical and dental antiques for more than four decades. They have helped build a number of major private collections and have contributed to the holdings of many museums. They also deal in other scientific and technology related items, including calculating instruments, office machines, patent models and wine-related accessories such as corkscrews. ROBERTA GORDON IS A SKILLED RESTORER WHO CAN HELP YOU WITH ANY INSTRUMENTS AND CASES THAT NEED ATTENTION. Feel free to contact them for details at: mgordon1940@gmail.com or 718-541-5974