This is a very early patent, as patent law first became part of the Department of the Interior in 1849. This is an actual patent model for an ice skate by Corser & Bundy granted on July 16, 1861. The patent number is 32821, which you can still look up today. The original tag reads "Corser & Bundy Skate. Patented July 16th 1861." This one-of-a-kind handmade sports piece is beautifully constructed of wood and brass, is miniature, but exactly in proportion and design to the actual skate. The design idea for the patent is that the runners are spring-loaded and lockable in either a fixed position, or the spring-loaded model, depending upon the changes in the grade or smoothness of the ice. This patent model measures 4x1.25" and condition is EX+.