Thread: Joseph Rodgers & Sons 'GOVT'

I just recieved this Joseph Rodgers & Sons wedge, maybe 1/4 hollow, that I picked up on the bay, pretty cheap I might add for a JR&Sons. On the front of the tang it reads the usual Joseph Rodgers & Sons, etc., etc. but on the back of the tang it reads HM GOVT. The scales appear to be original and are aluminum. Anyone have any info as to what the HM GOVT means and a possible age of this razor?

When I bid on it I thought the scales were replacments and was going to make a set for it. Now that I have it in hand and see they are original I believe I'm going to leave it that way. Will clean the blade up a bit but don't think I can get all the pitting & dark spots out. Beside, I think spotting and pitting give some of these old razors character.

Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!