- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Stories
Lot 288:
Description
Antique naval expanding bar shot constructed of forged iron, typically used in 18th-century maritime warfare to disable a vessel’s rigging and masts. The projectile features a dual-bar central shaft joined by two circular cast iron ends, designed to rotate during flight to maximize the area of impact. The surface exhibits heavy, dark brown oxidation and significant pitting throughout, consistent with long-term exposure and age. The terminal ends are roughly circular with a slight convex profile and central points from the casting or forging process. The two parallel bars are fused to cross-pieces that secure them to the terminal heads. 13 3/4" L x 2 1/2" W x 2 3/4" D.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Condition report:
The iron surface shows heavy overall oxidation and deep pitting consistent with age. There are scattered areas of surface loss and material degradation across both the central bars and the terminal heads. The structural integrity remains intact with all components firmly joined.
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