Trying to help a friend find out what this is ?

[KC]

My first thought was that it looked like aluminum - but haven't seen any modern and then I figured it may be more like pewter content!

[cogar]

Here is what made me think it might be cast aluminum.

And no, I've never researched this item, I just had the wife "dig it up" from wherever she stashes such thing away so I could show you why I was dubious.

[talesofthesevenseas]

I have an old cast aluminum Wear-Ever juice press that looks like the same metal. This one is an internet photo, not mine, but virtually the same:

[KC]

The more I look I would have to agree aluminum.

[waywardangler]

Has shaymus put a magnet to the grinder in question?  If it sticks, it is iron.  If it doesn't stick, then it may be one of the other metals discussed.

[fancypants]

I thought alum. too , but it could simply be nickle-plated cast iron (typical on food-use items) .

[KC]

Thanks fancy!

[cogar]

OOPS, I forgot about that, Fancy. I now remember once have a Griswald or Wagner piece like that.

[wendy177]

Just came across some interesting info on this type of grinder thought I would share These originated in china,18th c oldest ones  iron & wood  handles, also later made in America & Europe, called a herb crusher,herb mill, ship grinder, go-devil, sow & pig mill, ship mill. Ones originating from china have longer straight handles as the operator of the mill barefooted sat on a chair and rolled the wheel with his /her feet.

[KC]

Great info Wendy177!!!!