6804-176 Marked TAYLOR patent brace. Jeremy Taylor received his patent in 1836, the only earlier brace patent was destroyed in the patent office fire of 1836 and no examples are known. Taylor-pattern braces are frequently found, but this one is actually marked "J. Taylor Patent" which is uncommon. It's also stamped "Wilson" on the corner of the chuck; Increase Wilson of New London manufactured many of Taylor's braces. 12" sweep, cast iron head with an old welded repair, light surface rust. A nice and uncommon example of the earliest American patented brace. Good (CDE558) 80-150 NOTE: Initial bids accepted until 5pm EST Saturday, June 15. Bids may be raised by phone until 10pm EST on Sunday, June 16.