This is a Brass Fire Hose Nozzle from the 1900s – 1940’s (usually used with canvas hoses). Estimated Retail Value $40 - $100 depending on size with condition not a factor. Very collectible, because  people like to collect fire memorabilia especially here in Gloucester. 

As a young boy visiting relatives in the city, I have seen these being used for several fires. How did I know there was a fire going on?  In all the towns both large and small where there was a fire station and an emergency occurred a very, very loud siren (something like an air raid siren) would sound off and all the workers in the town and field would stop what they were doing and return to the station to take care of the emergency or fire.  Most firemen in small towns had other jobs and this was the only way they could be notified (note: this was way before cell phones – young people).  Anyway, as a young and curious person myself - when I heard the firehouse siren and later the siren from the fire truck I would follow the sounds so I could watch the excitement.  Now that was entertainment before television.    Did Gloucester or Mathews use such a siren in the 30s, 40s, and 50s to sound an emergency?  I did not live here then.  Give us a call at Holly Hill Farm Antiques 695-1146 or call the comments line at GLO-Clips.