Very interesting antique bits for use with large brace for drilling holes in wood. 

These bits were manufactured in the Remscheid area of Germany. It appears that they date to the mid 1800's. 

I did some research on them, but not much information is available. They came from a tool collector who has passed on, so I couldn't get any detailed information from past owners. 

The smaller bit has a 1" cutting end, while the larger bit is 1 1/2". These sizes are stamped into the bits. The metric system became compulsory on 1 January 1872, in Germany, so that would lead me to believe they were made before that date. 

The 1" bit is stamped with "Hilger & Sohne" as well as a small logo that is hard-to-see. On the opposite side it is stamped "Germany." These are located on the square, tapered tang end of the bit. This bit measures 5" in length, and 3/8" at the thickest part of the shank. 

The 1 1/2" bit is stamped "Hilger & Sons, Cast Steel." This bit measures 6 1/8" in length, and 7/16" at the thickest part of the shank. 

The two bits together weigh in at 5 ounces. 

Both show markings where they were used, and tightened into the brace used for holding them in place and drilling. 

The steel has become darkened with age. Bits were in this condition when I purchased them. All I did was clean them up with WD-40. As noted in the condition section of this listing, they remain very sharp and could be immediately used. Looking at their cutting end and design, I would think that they would perform very well, even today. 

I'll place them between pieces of white foam board for mailing by USPS First Class in a bubble envelope. 

I'll mail after payment is received through the new eBay managed payments program for sellers. 

Following is a little information that I put together from numerous locations on the internet. If any eBayer has more or different information, please email me and I will add it to this listing. 

"Hilger & Sons" company was named after Johann Peter Hilger (1720-1788) and his sons Peter Caspar Hilger (1747-1803) and Johann Peter Hilger (1752-1816). The company was listed in a directory from 1798. In 1779 the sons built the house where the Remscheid tool museum is now located. Hilger & Sons took part in the 1851 London exhibition in a joint venture with three other Remscheid makers. 

Bits, braces, dies, dividers, and hacksaws seem to be the extent of Hilger's offerings. The company names appear to be different depending on where and when the particular tool was made: Hilger, Hilger & Sons, and Hilger and Sohne, Remscheid, Germany. Details about the Hilger businesses are very sparse, but it appears that the Hilgers were in the tool business for the better part of two centuries.