Friday, February 16, 2007

'Pocket calculator' from the 14th Century up for auction

A 14th Century scientific instrument uncovered during building work has been given an auction guide price of between £60,000 and £100,000.

The astrolabe quadrant - described as the "pocket calculator" of its age - was found in Canterbury, Kent, in 2005.

Astrolabe quadrant

Made in England and dated back to 1388, the device was used for telling the time, mapping the stars and making height and depth measurements.

It is due to be sold at Bonhams in London on 21 March.

The auction house said it was one of only eight known examples in the world today.

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