EGG TONGS
Mr. W.F. Hellen, of Washington, D.C., has patented, in this device, a very convenient and graceful table implement, by which hot boiled eggs may be handled without injury to the fingers.
The accompanying engraving shows the device so clearly that no explanation is needed. Lovers of hot boiled eggs will find this article a great addition to the luxury of eating them as hot as desired, and by their use, an egg may be held without discomfort; and the end of the shell being removed, the remainder of the shell forms a cup in which the egg may be seasoned and prepared for eating. Another advantage is, that fingers need not be soiled by the contents of the shell, when eggs are eaten, as they always ought to be, soft boiled.
Source: Scientific American - 1st April 1871
As to whether anyone actually put them into production, perhaps an example will appear here.
Trev.