Dating a Boxwood Ruler ...

Hello ...

I wish I could post a photograph of this item, but I don't have one.

A friend of mine purchased an antique ruler from an antiques shop. He
was told that the ruler is boxwood. It has brass trim, and a straight
brass piece that lifts up from the ruler for additional measuring, I
guess.

He was told that this ruler is c. 1820. He paid $270.00 for it.

When I looked at the ruler, I was concerned about whether it is indeed
c. 1820, because on the ruler, it says "Made in U.S.A."

Wood items are not something I know a lot about. I know more about
porcelain, books and vintage clothing -- and even in those fields, I am
NOT an expert.

But my understanding is that most things were not marked with their
country of origin that early in the 19th century. I thought it was
only common for things to be marked much later in that century -- 1880s
and afterward?

Also, would manufacturers be using the abbreviation "U.S.A" for the
United States as early as 1820?

I am wondering if perhaps this ruler is more likely late 19th or early
20th century. And if it is, $270.00 seems very high to me.

I would really appreciate any information or opinions.

Thanks so much!