I recently acquired this old all-steel brace.   I have a very similar one that is plainly marked Fray & Pigg so i thought this might be another one.  As you can see, it was well tarnished.   I buffed off the rust with a nylon brush and i can see part of the makers mark … unfortunately all that shows is “USA”.  You can almost make out diagonal lines to the left and right of that, and some evidence of other letters on the left.  So that has me confused … USA … that’s not an antique mark, as far as I know.  Anyone have a clue to offer?   
 

 

@steven newman

The name "Fray" comes to mind..

 

And the name Spofford?

Edited February 26, 20233 yr by steven newman

Yes, it’s a spofford chuck.  Could be a Fray brace, apparently they were made between 1869 and 1942.  I just didn’t realize the tool would have “USA” that long ago.