Powder chargers were some of the first pieces of silverwork made by early Navajo jewelers. They are used to measure the proper amount of gun powder to put into a rifle or gun - the end has an opening from which one can poor or scoop a measured amount of gun powder into. The earliest silver American Indian powder chargers were made in the 1880's. We are dating this one from the late 19th into the early 20th century. It has silver stamping and a very unique hand motif at the end of it. In the middle of the powder charger is a hole from which to hang or mount the piece. It measures 4 1/2" in length, and it is unsigned.