The postage scale has a rounded rectangular shape with a round platform on a stem to lay your letter or small package for weighing. The postage scale displays a raised relief Art Nouveau pattern that consists of grapes and leaves with real Abalone shell discs being used to represent the grapes. There are 7 of these Abalone set into each wide side and only 3 on the round disc. The back and front do not have any Abalones. The front has the Star domestic and foreign postage label with the printed postage cost. The latest patent date on the label is January 31, 1899.

This postage scale is considered to be in very good to excellent condition as there are no cracks, nicks, or dings to any of the metal. There is typical age wear to the gold and the underside bottom has scratches. The postage scale appears to still work fine. This postage scale still retains all of its original Abalone discs. This postage scale is properly signed on the bottom with the "Tiffany Studios New York" impressed mark along with the pattern number "1170" impressed just under it. The "11" is upside down. There are also the numbers "13" lightly etched below the "1170". This is more than likely the order number at the factory. I see these type numbers quite often. I have never found two of same items with the same numbers. They always seem to have different numbers.

Tiffany started using a 3 digit numbering system after 1902. Since this has a 4 digit number this postage scale was made circa 1903-1910. Those of you who are looking for an excellent example of this postage scale in the Abalone pattern with gold patina will be delighted with their purchase.