


This metal device found in central Kentucky:

"It's a mouthpiece puller for brass instruments. Looks like it's missing a piece on top of the center screw."
"You are absolutely correct. I looked up what that looks like, but modern ones are much simpler designs using fewer but precision-made screws. However, I found one on this page that's very similar in shape and concept (but made of metal) called a Ferree's puller."