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Solid copper bolt (4.5˝ in length with a .75" diameter head) made by Paul Revere for the USS Frigate Constitution ('Old Ironsides'), 1795-1797. Presented on a wooden display, 7.75˝ x 3.25˝ x .75˝, which bears an engraved plate: “Original Copper Bolt, Made by Paul Revere, Removed from the U.S. Frigate Constitution 1928.” Revere held the contract for supplying the copper bolts, rods, spikes, and other fittings, as well as the copper sheathing on the hull, for which he received $3,820.33. Because copper bolts would not corrode like iron, these were essential for fastening timbers that might come into contact with seawater. They were also important for ships whose hulls were sheathed in copper. This rare artifact was removed during one of the ship’s restoration projects before the mid-20th century, likely during the ship’s 1927-1933 renovation. The rod exhibits a stable surface of mottled green corrosion consistent with its age and origins. In fine condition.
