What's This Suppose To Be?

[Tri-j]

I found this piece this past weekend and don't know what it is. My first thought was a watch fob, but reality set in and think it is not appropriate for the size. My second thought was maybe a key chain of a sort, but then there is no way to get the keys on it. So now I'm thinking it may have something to do with horses, such as part of a bit or something.

Description:

3 brass pieces - 14.5" L over all - With a nickle or silver plating

Loop on end 4" L

Center piece w/5 ring design 6.5" L

Hook on end 4" L

Any help on Identifying and or age would be gratefully appreciated.

 

[steve in so la]

Kinda reminds me of a simple hand held hook to lead a horse somewhere. Just snap it on the bit and lead. Steve i nso az

 

[Tom]

Only the one that you found is twice as long as the one that I found. The hook on mine is about 2" long. I found mine a few years ago in northern Va and I've wondered the same thing. At least we know that they were made in more than one size.

 

[Tri-j]

Well it certainly is the same thing, that's for sure. Yours design is slightly different, but looks to be of the same period. I think " steve in so az " is right on as to what it is. The hook on it makes sense.

I must have seen or read something about these before because of Steve's description, and my original use of the word bit in my post. Now the proper term for the piece would be nice, instead of calling it the hooked thingy.