Abstract: The hinge comprises a compression spring, which is adapted to balance the weight of a hinged leaf, such as a flap, lid or door. The compression spring is prestressed and bears at one end on the stationary hinge member and at the other end acts by means of a spring guide on a second hinge member, which is attached to the hinged leaf. The spring guide is supported at one end by two limbs of the stationary hinge member and at the other end by a slidable pin, which is mounted in cam slots, which are respectively provided in the limbs of the stationary hinge member and in a control lever. The latter is pivoted at its other end to the movable hinge member. The cam slots have such a configuration that the excursion of the spring resulting from the pivotal movement of the control lever is minimized.