Hhmm, I don't actually know but I'm guessing Victorian. I don't think it is a military tag as there are no numbers on it.
Was it my imagination or is there a hole in the middle?
The fact that Esq appears after the name would suggest a person of some standing as opposed to a labourer.
I have come across a George Edward Sayer in the 1871 census. He is living in Charing and is a magistrate so someone of importance.
The address is Pett House, Charing, West Ashford, Kent
Registration district West Ashford
Archive reference RG10
Piece number 956
Folio 14
Page 2
Perhaps the Sayer on your tag is related in some way?
Maybe someone else can offer their opinion or will know the date of the tag.