Forerunner of the PH screwdriver?

[Branson]

Could this be an ancestor of the Perfect Handle? 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271126429070?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2648

[Papaw]

I suppose it could have been. I wonder how old that really is?

[rusty]

Interesting, constructed more like a knife than a screwdriver.

Coes was using 'knife handle' designs before Smith in any case, the general idea wasn't all that original, Smith just refined it somewhat.

The fracture chipping aling the edges hints it is hardened carbon steel....

That 'cypher' looks more like a guild mark , if so, the digits under it tell a story about when and where....

[john k]

Papaw i think you're right, in that it is extremely old, as tools go.   Or does the blade seem to be reset in the handle?   Guess somebody is going to have to buy it to find out.   I just know if I see something like that at the anteek mall, its going home with me, dollars providing. 

[Branson]

I suppose it could have been. I wonder how old that really is?

Somewhere between 1837 and 1901 -- the reign of Queen Victoria (VR = Victoria Regina).  My WAG is somewhere around the middle of her reign.
The construction is somewhat reminiscent of the rondel daggers of the early Renaissance.   When new, it must have been an awfully pretty tool.  And very hefty, compared to the typical London pattern turnscrew.

[Papaw]

I'm sure I won't be the buyer at the opening price!