Smallwood Architects 2 Fold Rule Old! Smallwood, Marshall

This is a nice clean unique styled 2 foot, 2 fold boxwood rule with the semi-arch joint, and beveled outside edge from 1 inch to about 9".  It also has all brass fittings, both original alignment pins, and end caps in good condition.  The numbers and markings are still in very good condition, and their is a rarely seen maker's family shield on one side, below the shield is marked "EST'D 1810 RE NO. 230601".  Also marked by the 9 inch mark "MARSHALL OXFORD ST. MANCHESTER SMALLWOOD MAKER'S WARRANTED BEST BOX".  The middle alignment pin is in good condition, the end pin is good, but the boxwood around it is worn.  There is some width wise warpage, with an opening of about 1/16" at the end between the two sides when the arch joint is completely closed, otherwise amazingly straight since the rule is so thin, (only about 1/8" thick).  Very nice for a rule that is at least 125 years old!  There is no cracks noted in the boxwood, and the connecting area from brass to boxwood look good.  There is a few scratches here and there, but overall a very nice, unique ruler!