Interesting antique tool what is it?

[agreeneyes]

This is a Cast Iron Antique tool beautifully made and still in great condition for its age.  I haven't any idea what it was used for, I believe it's some kind of a grabbing tool.  I thought possibly burlap bags or cotton, but it's just a guess.  There isn't a screw holding the wood handle on, it has been either pounded or heated. The initials of AESG have been stamped on it. Appreciate any information regarding this tool, age, use and value.

[cogar]

I'll also guess and say it was made by a blacksmith ..... for a "special purpose", .... but I wouldn't know what.

And not a "grabbing tool" but maybe a "punch pattern" or "stiching pattern" tool for maybe leather, ..... aka: harness making.

Like placeing it on a piece of leather and "tapping' it with a mallet.

I say that because of the precise "matching" positions of the two rows of protruding "pins" on the head of the tool.

The number and placement of the "pins" was done with precision.

[agreeneyes]

Thank you for your opinion