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General Militaria
A collection of Oldnauti Bits & Pieces
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S. G. Brown Type F 'Featherweight' Headphones - Sidney George Brown set up business in Watford, north of London, in 1910 and in 1915 moved to a larger factory in North Acton. He was a prolific inventor of electromechanical devices, including the "Microphone Amplifier" (1921) which permitted loudspeaker operation from a crystal set without the use of valves and amongst other things a gyro compass. The company continued making headphones until the 1960's and eventually in the 1980's became part of the Racal organisation.
During the 1920's, when broadcasting was in its infancy, crystal set radios were the only viable form of radio receiver and to hear the broadcast transmissions the only form of effective transducer was a pair of headphones like the S G Brown Type F, which were produced in large numbers. Each earpiece had an impedance of 2000 Ω and were wired in series, thus giving an overall impedance of 4000Ω. Whilst the Type F headphones are rather basic compared with modern audio, in their day they were cutting edge and were widely used with early crystal sets and then with many other forms of vintage radio.
This set remains in close to mint original condition, inside and out. One diaphragm is marked 'Ferrosil No:24' and is made by Richard Thomas and Baldwins, who operated an integrated steel works out of the Ebbw Vale Works and made everything from car parts to wheelbarrows. The original braid covered cord is fitted with a single pin jack plug and is again in excellent condition. Finally, we attach a period advertisement for Type F headphones dating from 1948, so proves the design remained in production with little alteration for a long period of time. By this date they were being sold for use on the sea, land and in the air. The price then was 25 shillings that equates to £30.00 today, so making our 2023 list price a bit of a bargain! We have nothing to test them on here so are being sold as a collectable, but looking at the condition we feel every chance they would still work as intended.
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£28.00
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'Dubois' 1945 Carved Trench Art Wooden Plaque - This one is a bit of a mystery! It appears to be hand carved and features in the centre, in relief, what appears to be a native American Indian ; above is the name 'Dubois' and below the date 1945. The seller had no information in regard to its origins but we assumed it perhaps referred to a North American vessel of the same name. Research on line has so far yielded no further information but what we have found are several references to the US town of Dubois, in whose streets Butch Cassidy was known to have walked and it in turn is located adjacent to the Wind River Indian Reservation. Distinctive petroglyphs, or rock art, pecked and carved on rocks in the Dinwoody and Torrey basins near Dubois are thought to have been the work of ancestors of the modern-day Shoshone Indian tribes.
So that is as far as we have got but if any visitors to the site can add any background to this object we would be happy to update our listing. The plaque measures 5.75" diameter (14.5 cm) and carries a loop on the reverse for wall hanging. We assume it was crafted in 1945 and we speculate this fine piece of trench art was carved by a US serviceman whilst serving in the European theatre in late WWII and has clearly been very skilfully worked. How this fine object of probably North American origins turned up in South West England remains another mystery but it could well have been produced in theatre and given as a present to a girl over here before the serviceman was shipped back Stateside. This is pure speculation but we feel that after 73 years it is perhaps time it was repatriated!
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£25.00
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British 2nd Army WWII Trench Art Shield - The British Second Army was a field army of the British Army active during both World War I and World War II. During the Second World War the 2nd Army was the core element in the British contribution in the D-Day landings in Normandy and subsequent advance across Northwest European under General Eisenhower's SHAEF. The shield appears to be hand made and is carved from wood. It features in relief a crusader's sword superimposed on a white shield and blue cross. To the top right is the number 505 whilst to bottom left is a winged 'T', again carved in relief. To the bottom right is a list of the areas the 2nd Army operated in during WWII:France, Belgium, Holland and Germany and the dates 1939-1945. The back carries a brass wall mount bracket. The original paint is still bright but with some age wear. This item exudes period charm but is somewhat outside of our area of expertise so if any visitors to the site can explain any of the details we have missed please get in touch and we will add to our description. Measures 9.5"x6.25" (24 cm x 16 cm)
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£36.00
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Japanese WWII 'Hinomaru Yosegaki' Personal Flag - In translation a 'Good Luck' flag and was a traditional gift for Japanese soldiers, sailors and airmen deployed during WWII and other military campaigns. The Japanese call their country's flag 'hinomaru', which literally translates to "sun-round", a reference to the red circle on a white field and often more commonly referred to by collectors as 'the meat ball' flag. Made of silk very often these good luck charms were signed by friends and family, often with short messages wishing the soldier victory, safety, and good luck in battle. Sometimes they contained prayers and they were intended to be folded up and carried as close to the heart as possible. When signed the Japanese characters were usually written vertically and radiated outward from the edge of the red circle a practice called 'yosegaki', meaning "sideways-writing." These flags were popular souvenirs when captured by allied servicemen in WWII. Our example is unsigned but remains in remarkable original condition with just very minor staining. The flag retains leather corner pieces at the luff with the original cord ties. 35"x 25" (89 cm x 63 cm)
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£48.00
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Liberation of Belgium Scarf dated September 1944 - A beautifully executed, hand painted example featuring the national flags of the USSR, USA, Belgium, Britain and Free French. Below is a dated shield and an inscription "souvenir de Belgique de Mrs Vierse a Mrs Owen". It would appear that the scarf may have been commisioned by her husband who was probably a member of the liberating forces. Judging by the original packaging, it could well have been presented at a Christmas present in December 1944. A fine souvenir of Summer 76 years ago.
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£25.00
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WWII Remembrance Paper Weight - Features an attractive coloured picture with a cross, red poppy, banner and with a caption below "1939 - Lest We Forget - 1945". In the background is a windmill which gives a Dutch feel to the image. This is mounted on a heavy slate base and whilst this has a few minor chips to the edge, it remains a decorative, emotive and functional item. Measures 5.0" x 4.5" (13 cm x 11 cm)
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£25.00
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WWII Merchant Navy Trench Art Water Bottle 'Operation Husky' and 'Pachino Day' - This is certainly a one-off and unique item! The aluminium Italian water bottle is of the standard design, used by Other Ranks in WWII and when issued it would have been encased in a grey felt cover with an adjustable hemp shoulder carrying strap. It has a damaged cap, that is currently seized, and missing its retaining chain and it has various other knocks and bumps, indicative of service use. What lifts it to a whole different level however is the superb trench art engravings to the front and back. Sadly, the history relating to this item has now been lost, but we have seen similar artwork produced by Italian POWs, but as this example is unsigned, we have no way of knowing its story. The only tiny clue we do have is scratched into the cap are the initials, we believe reading 'C. F. ', who we assume was the original Italian owner.
Whatever its origins it is now a fine example of trench art and clearly gives a record of the subsequent owner's war. To the front is a very fine badge of the British Merchant Navy, worn by all sailors who served in the British Merchant Navy in wartime, and below the crucial 'Sicily 10th July 1943'. History relates at this time the allies assembled the then largest fleet in the world's history, to launch the Allied invasion of Sicily. Over 3,200 ships, craft, and boats made up the Allied invasion. To divert some of the Axis forces to other areas, the Allies engaged in several deception operations, the most famous and successful of which was 'Operation Mincemeat'. The invasion of Sicily was to be a prelude to the invasion of mainland Europe and was codenamed 'Husky' and began on the night of 9–10 July and ended on 17 August 1943. Strategically, 'Husky' achieved the goals set out for it; the Allies drove Axis air, land and naval forces from the island and the Mediterranean sea lanes were again opened to Allied merchant ships for the first time since 1941. These events led to the Italian leader, Benito Mussolini, being toppled from power in Italy on 25th July 1943, and to the Allied invasion of mainland Italy on 3rd September.
The water bottles MN badge is the surrounded by 15 engraved names of port towns and cities, which we surmise charts the travels of the new owner in WWII. As well as Gibraltar and Malta other countries visited include Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Italy and of course Sicily. The reverse side carries a further 6 towns, being Torre Annunziata, Bougie, Naples, Bari, Algiers and Anzio and below is a large engraved harp. Clearly the harp features on the coat of arms of Eire and on the ensign of the Irish Merchant Navy, but as southern Ireland was neutral in WWII we believe this represents something else and as a pure guess it is a symbol to give the owner the fabled 'luck of the Irish'? The alternative we have come up with is it represents the insignia of the London Irish Rifles, who are confirmed as serving at Salerno in 1943 and later in the Italian campaign in 1944. If any visitors can enlighten us with a more scientific explanation, we will add details to our description.
Not much more we can add other than in summary our best guess is this was commissioned by someone serving in the British Merchant Navy in WWII to record his wartime movements as all the places mentioned are seaports, and who was certainly involved with, or took part in the' Pachino Day' landings on 10th July 1943. It seems quite likely it was produced by a captured Italian POW, but that is pure conjecture. Whatever its origins it is a superb example of WWII trench art and is of museum quality and we doubt we will ever see anything similar again. Measures 8" x 5.5" (20 cm x 14 cm)
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Kriegsweihnacht Nazi German 1941 dated 78 RPM Records - Literally translated meaning 'War Christmas' and 'Unsere Weihnachtslieder' meaning 'Our Christmas'. Whilst we have no equipment here to play these records on going from the label details record one numbered T70429 (without printing on the card cover) contains two Christmas recordings – one a classical German folk piece composed by Herbert Napiersky, (who is thought to have been involved with Hitler Youth Songbook) entitled 'Tal und Hügel Sind Verschneit' that we believe translates to 'The Valley and Hill are Covered with Snow'. The other side features a German Christmas carol 'Es Ist Ein Ros Entsprungen' translated as "A Rose Has Sprung Up " recorded by Walter Rein (1893-1955) a German composer, academic, and musicologist.
The other record numbered T70431 is contained within a similar card case marked 'Musikas' and has contact details for the towns of Nerrebrogade, Kongevej (the principal shopping street of Frederiksberg in Copenhagen) and Enghavevej, another district of Copenhagen. Denmark was occupied by Germany from 9th April 1940, in Operation Weserübung, so it seems these records were retailed by Danish stores for purchase by the occupiers over Christmas of 1941 and intended as spirit lifting recordings for German troops, as they prepared for their 3rd Christmas at war and with the anticipated a longer conflict ahead. One side carries the title 'In Den Heiligen Nächten' which we believe translates to a folk song 'In the Holy Nights ' written by Heinz Grunow " (1913-1989). On the reverse side is 'Hohe Nacht der klaren Sterne' by Hans Bauman which translated means 'Great Night of the Clear Stars' which we believe he wrote in 1936. Baumann (1914 –1988) was a German poet, songwriter, literary translator and author of children's books. In WWII he joined the German Army and spent most of his time on the Eastern Front working in the propaganda unit. Versions of the various songs are available on You Tube if you should wish to check them out. This record was recorded by Singgemeinschaft Rudolph Lamy in Berlin.
These records are a little outside of our normal area but came on with some Kriegsmarine items and as we often say they would most certainly have a story to tell if they could only talk! We imagine they would still play on the correct equipment and whilst the condition looks quite acceptable we are offering for sale after 80 years as collectables from a time when the World was a very different place. In August 1941 Joseph Goebbels had banned all music arranged by British, Poles, Russians & French citizens, the only works that survived his purge were by Chopin & Bizet and domestic orchestras were forced to turn their attentions to many obscure German composers, so by Christmas of that year the available playlist was considerably curtailed!
If these are your area of collecting we suggest you also check out as well item OC471 in the book section, an Adler Luftwaffe songbook published in Berlin 1939, which we have also just listed.
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Combined Services Staff College Pewter Tankard 1932 - We believe this fine trophy to have come from the Defence Services Staff College which was established in India in the year 1905 as the Army Staff College at Deolali (near Bombay) but in 1907, it was relocated in Quetta (in present day Pakistan). On partition of the sub-continent, the Indian element moved to Wellington, Tamil Nadu in 1947. The tankard is finely engraved Staff College Squash Tournament 1932 and carries a Kings Crown, an owl and blow the Latin motto 'Tam Marte Quam Minerva'. In translation this means 'As Much by Mars as Minerva' which when interpreted the meaning is'As Much by War as by Wisdom. 'This crest was current in the period 1907-1947. When this was forwarded to Army HQ for approval, it was turned down as inappropriate and a new crest with a Hindi motto was asked for. Despite opposition it survived –and a very fine crest it is too! Our tankard was presented as a Squash Tournament prize back in 1932 but we have no idea who the lucky recipient was. In excellent condition, with minor age wear and marked to the base 'Manod Period, Sheffield and numbered 2348. 'Measures 4.75" high (12 cm) and is 1 pint capacity
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Air Warden Bakelite Door Plaque - An original British Home front sign from the Second World War. Air Raid Precautions Warden's (ARP's) provided the backbone of Britain's civil defence operations and was formed in 1935 when storm clouds were already gathering in Europe. They provided an essential service during the Blitz and throughout the dark days of the War. The Air Raid Warden had to be easily identifiable so as well as his ARP badge homes were normally marked to indicate where the local warden could be contacted in an emergency.
Several different types existed made from aluminium, enamel or as this example in Bakelite. This would have probably been attached to an inside door within a larger building or industrial concern that warranted its own warden. In a market that is now seeing reproductions being offered this is a guaranteed period example, with evidence beside the fixing holes to show where it has been removed from a door, by an unknown hand long ago. This is an iconic Home Front collectable from the era in good original condition with minor fading & discolouration to brown Bakelite and little paint loss to lettering, exactly in line with age, use and storage over the preceding 80 years. The plaque was purchased in Bristol, a west country City that suffered an absolute pounding in the Bristol Blitz from November 1940 to April 1941 and as we so often say here "if it could only talk it would certainly have a story to tell"! The plaque measures 6" x 3" (15 cm X 7.5 cm).
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German WWII Bakelite Carbide Bunker Lamp - On offer is an original WWII example that will appeal to militaria, lamp and Bakelite collectors! Whilst we can find no sign of a date it is profusely stamped including on the aluminium support clip on the back a Waffenamt mark so would have been manufactured between 1933-1945 and perhaps used to light a bunker in Hitler's 'Atlantikwall'. These lamps are both intricate yet beautifully engineered with the body being moulded from Bakelite and with the tank and other components being made from a base metal. The few examples of these we have seen tend to be either damaged or missing parts but this one appears complete and when it came in the bottom dish still contained the original carbide used to power the lamp and it appears untouched since WWII. Whilst the provenance of the piece has been lost down the years it seems probable it was recovered after WWII and brought back to the UK as a souvenir of the conflict.
The handle has a moulded groove to the centre and these are sometimes seen with a suspension hook attached. The handle is also embossed with a letter PAG in a circle which we believe to be a manufacturers code ; alongside is stamped 1608/4. Inside the front opening window is the sam3 code and 1451/3 whist the tray inside the carbide holder is marked 1452/A and a 2 below. The lamp reflector remains in place as well as the original glass windows to the front and side. These lamps also featured the facility to slide in metal plates to side and front to restrict light emission but this example is without. Not much more we can add other than it is small but beautifully formed! As with all our stock please drop us a mail via the enquiry screen if you would like to see a range of photographs to show the full details. Measured 9" (22 cm) with the handle in the folded position.
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Royal Tank Regiment Trench Art Tray - The Tank Corps is the oldest tank unit in the world, being formed by the British Army in 1916. In 1923, it was officially given the title 'Royal' by King George V making it 'the Royal Tank Corps'. It was at this time that the motto, "Fear Naught", the black beret, and the unit badge was adopted. In April 1939, the Royal Tank Corps was renamed 'the Royal Tank Regiment' and became a wing of the newly created Royal Armoured Corps. Whilst we originally thought this trench art tray dated to WWI we now believe, as it is engraved with the motto 'Fear Naught' it has to be no earlier than 1923, but as it also carries the legend 'The Royal Tank Regiment' it must date from 1939 or later. Made from battlefield scrap brass the engraving is finely worked and carries a Kings Crown to top centre, the legend 'The Royal Tank Regiment' and below a finely detailed image of a WWI period Mk I tank and the motto 'Fear Naught' meaning 'Fear nothing'. The tray is made from heavy grade brass and a period hanging loop has been soldered to the back for wall mounting. All Tank Corps/Regiment related items are now extremely desirable and this tray would make a great addition to either a tank or trench art collection. Measures 8.75" diameter (22 cm). If your interest is trench art please check out the fine RAF example we have also added to our inventory today.
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WWII German Parachute Flare Diorama - An ex Museum display item that has been professionally mounted in a 3D glazed display case. A label mounted within the frame states 'A German parachute flare, dated 1940 with expiry date of September 1944, complete with integral parachute, as found to West of Carentan in area of Operation ''Cobra'', the breakout from coastal landing area of US forces after D-Day'. Operation Cobra is well documented when Fallschirmjäger Regiment 6 was forced to retreat from St -Mère-Eglise, St.-Côme-du-Mont, and the key city of Carentan by American paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, who had come ashore at Utah Beach on D Day.
The display includes two flare pistol cartridges, both inert, and still retaining signs of mud from when they were recovered ; one shows battle damage and the other is intact. The mud hides most of the data on the damaged cartridge case but the other features wording and whilst not entirely clear seems to start 'Fallschirm' which is German for parachute and also 'Orion' which could indicate this was a star flare. A lightweight silk parachute with rigging lines is also mounted beside the flares to complete the display. The flare cartridges measure 5 1/2" or 13.5 cm long. Whilst we have had numerous German flare cartridges over the years this is the first example of this type we have had and to retain the delicate parachute is exceptional. Clearly we can't support the stated provenance but if correct, as seems likely, this is an emotive souvenir of The D-Day landings in this 75th Anniversary year.
Diorama frame measures 11.75" x 6.75" (30 cm x 17 cm). Despite being completely inert we prefer to offer this item for sale to UK based customers.
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Comite Reception des Prisonniers de Guerre et Deportes Politiques Seraing Centre - At the end of WWII millions of displaced persons, and many former POW's from the Soviet Union, were held in temporary camps. Most of them subsequently returned home but thousands decided to stay. In 1947 these people were re-homed with those countries willing to take them and Belgium was one of the first. Between 1947 to 1952 15,000 Russian-speakers settled in Belgium. One such reception centre was the miners' camp at Seraing, but living conditions were poor and lacked even basic necessities and life for the inmates must have been very harsh.
Our plaque is made from chrome plated brass and is inscribed in French and translated reads 'Reception Committee for Prisoners of War & Political Deportees Seraing Centre. 'Above is an image of a soldier wearing a forage cap set against a background of barbed wire. We have no idea when or to whom this was presented but an emotive and probably scarce object relating to a little know aspect of post war history. Measures 3" x 3" (7.5 cm x 7.5 cm)
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'Offizierheim Münster' Wine Coaster - The engraving on the top face of the little dish in translation reads 'Officers Mess Münster'. We have purchased a pair of these silver plate trays and were told by the vendor they were brought back to the UK in 1945 by a returning British soldier as a war souvenir, being the ideal size to slip into a battledress pocket. Our online research indicates during World War II Münster was maintained as the headquarters (Hauptsitz) for the 6th Military District of the German Wehrmacht, under the command of Infantry General Gerhard Glokke. This headquarters controlled military operations in Münster, Essen, Düsseldorf, Wuppertal, Bielefeld, Coesfeld, Paderborn, Herford, Minden, Detmold, Lingen, Osnabrück, Recklinghausen, Gelsenkirchen, and Cologne. Münster was the home base for the VI and XXIII Infantry Corps, as well as the XXXIII and LVI Panzerkorps. Thanks to its military presence, Münster was much targeted by the RAF and about 91% of the old city and 63% of the entire city was destroyed during Allied air raids, but was largely rebuilt in the 1950's.
On offer is either a single tray or the pair depending on your needs and budget. Each tray measures 5" diameter (13 cm) with engraving to the centre confirming where it served and from where it was subsequently captured back in '45. The top surface of each shows some service wear to the silver plate but otherwise they remain in very crisp original condition. The reverse is marked NS WMS & 2; NS means Neusilber (Alpacca) which is an indication of a base metal for silver plating and believe 2 is the silver content. WMF is the abbreviation for Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, which indicates the manufacturer as Württemberg Metal Factory, established in 1880 in the small town of Geislingen on the river and this company still remains in business. Whilst not dated these trays are quality items and we therefore believe them to be of pre-war manufacture and are likely to date from the 1930's.
The price indicated is for a single tray. If you would like to purchase the pair and so keep them together, we can supply both at at £100 plus postage at actual. Now as we move towards Christmas this could be an ideal present for the military collector in your life, whilst also remaining a parctical and useable coaster
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Home Guard Enamel Sign from an 'AW' Bomb Case - This original WWII sign would have originally have been screwed on the inside lid of a box containing "AW Bombs" (a reference to the manufacturers Allbright and Wilson) or as officially known the 'SIP' or 'No 76 grenades'. Four grenades were packed in one wire-bound wooden case which had two rope handles and was fastened with two wires sealed with lead. The grenade was self igniting, consisting of a short necked half pint clear glass bottle containing yellow phosphorus, water, benzene and rubber, with a free space of 10%, sealed with a plain red crown cork. Spontaneous ignition occurred when the glass was shattered on contact with the target, by the oxidation of the phosphorus in air, which in turn ignites the benzene. A crude rubber two-inch strip, gradually dissolved in the container during storage, rendering the contents tacky and therefore assists it to adhere to the object at which the grenade is directed. The weight of each filled grenade was 1.5 lbs. You can almost imagine 'Dad's Army's Corporal Pike's shouting his warning 'Don't panic Mr Mainwaring' when handling such a weapon-before dropping it!
The AW bomb was issued to the Home Guard initially for hand throwing and then for firing from 'the Northover Projector'. The Projector was a 2.5 inch ad hoc anti-tank weapon used by the British Army and Home Guard during the Second World War. With a German invasion of Great Britain imminent in 1940 after the allied defeat in the Battle of France, most available weaponry was diverted to the regular British Army, leaving the Home Guard short on supplies, particularly anti-tank weaponry. This weapon consisted of a hollow metal tube attached to a tripod, with a rudimentary breech at one end. Rounds were fired with the use of black powder ignited by a standard musket percussion cap and it had an effective range of between 100 and 150 yards. The weapon did have several problems in that it was difficult to move and the No. 76 Special Incendiary Grenades had a tendency to break inside the breech, damaging the weapon and injuring the crew. Like many obsolete Home Guard weapons, it was eventually replaced by the 2-pounder anti-tank gun in 1943. It is probably a good thing this weapon was never tested in a live situation whilst defending our shores!
The sign is generally in good condition for its age, with just minor chips to the enamel. Whilst the handling and storage advice is all present and readable it appears to have been over painted in parts at some stage ; we have chosen to leave it thus, just as it came to us. Measures 12" x 8" (30.5 cm x 20.0 cm)
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Autograph & Sketch Book dated Christmas 1913 - A super leather covered book dedicated to Sophie from Mary G. Googh and dated Xmas 1913. It has numerous entries dated from 1916 to 1928 and included poems, cartoons and painted pictures. One features a square rigger entering Falmouth Bay in 1914 and captioned "Safe in Port". Another is a poignant poem by Private M. J. Wors of the Royal Fusiliers dated June 28th, 1915 and one wonders if he survived the war to end all wars. A further cartoon shows a cat and mouse with the caption "How long have you been rationed?" Perhaps the most moving image is entitled "My little dug out on the Somme" and is signed by L. Badger 1.1.17. This emotive book was purchased in Cornwall, S.W. England and with names like Pascoe and Goldworthy, it would appear to relate to a Cornish family living in the Falmouth area. Some fading and minor wear to spine but generally in excellent condition for its age and certainly a unique one off item.
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German Lantern by F.F.A. Schulze Berlin. - This came in with the WWII period bunker lantern which we have also listed today. This one however is made from a brass and our research indicated this is earlier and pre dates WWII and we estimate it to have been made during the 1930's but the basic concept and design is a very similar to the other model. This one is maker marked to the back plate F.F.A. Schulze, Berlin. D.R.P. 395351; this company is still in operation today. DRP stands for 'Deutsches Reich Patent' meaning the lamp was made for either the Military or the Government. Interestingly an identical example has recently been recovered from a WWII wreck off Libya. It seems this pattern of lamp was issued to a wide variety of users including Reichsbahn, Wehrmacht, and Reichsmarine. It also appears the design dates back to 1927 and was clearly still in use in WWII.
The lamp has clearly seen service use but despite this and its age is still in excellent display condition. Like the other model it would have worked off carbide loaded into the screw base. The internal reflector is still in place but is somewhat dirty but we have left the inside just as it came to us. We believe the opening front window locating pin is not original and a cork fills the hole in the tank on the reverse which originally would have had a metal screw cap. The rear of the lamp carries a locating strut embossed with an early stylised eagle device and below 'WaA 124' and '48'. Clearly now for sale as a collectable and would make an excellent addition to an appropriate lamp or militaria collection. It measures 9" (23 cm) with the handle in the folded position. As with all our stock if you have possible interest send us an email and we can supply a range of detailed photographs.
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Pre WWI Royal Artillery Dress Tunic - Whilst outside our normal area I could not resist buying this tunic having owned and worn an identical pattern back in the'Summer of Love' in 1967 when these things were both younger and less valuable than they are today! This example has a slightly worn paper label inside which describes the garment as a 'Royal Artillery Smock' and is dated March 1913. The size is indicated as waist 34" and breast at 39". The jacket is manufactured in a dark blue wool with a red collar and yellow piping. To the rear it has two brass belt hooks although the belt is absent. The cuffs bear gold cordage to match that used on the collar and epaulettes. The brass Royal Artillery buttons are made by Smith & Wright Ltd of Birmingham. Inside the jacket there is a small fabric cloth pocket sewn in. Overall the condition of this tunic is excellent despite its 105 years! It has very minor wear to one cuff and light wear to the collar lining but all in all excellent display condition.
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Parafilm Carton by Lindsay & Williams Ltd - A modest but attractive period box, now empty of original contents, that will appeal to both packaging and aviation collectors alike We understand it would have originally held blue insulating tape marketed under the brand name 'Parafilm'. Our research online indicates 'Parafilm is an amalgam of highly refined paraffin wax and pure rubber with the addition of colouring matter. Parafilm is thermoplastic non-hygroscopic, an excellent insulator and can be used with advantage in place of ordinary insulating tape particularly in wet situations'. The carton features a generic 1930's aircraft a that has then looks of a Hawker Hart and also carries an RAF roundel. Instructions in the top flap indicate the tape should be stored in a cool place! The box shows minor age wear but remains a rare survivor! Measures 3.5" x3.5" (9 cmm x9 cm)
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'Cafe Colette' Durium Records - These are a first for us! On offer is a pair of records that we understand were manufactured during the depression years of the 1930's as a cheap, unbreakable and 'durable' gramophone record and were sold both in the US and Europe. The 4" diameter records (10 cm) are both marked 'Café Colette Orchestra' and were produced by Aircraft Productions Ltd and formed a part of a series of five records. One features 'Wine Woman and Song (who can disagree with that?) by Strauss and we understand recorded in 1933. The other is stamped 'Kasbeck (Caucasian Dance). Interestingly the reverse carries advertising for aircraft shockproof watches and surprisingly 'Double life 3 hole blades @ 15 blades for one shilling. How times have changed! We understand these littler records are now quite scarce and 80 years after their release need to be rehomed with an appropriate collector of such things. For sale as collectables as we can no longer they will still play as intended!
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WWI British Mk IX Trench periscope - A fine original example with a makers plate indicating made by the firm of By R&J Beck Ltd. This is also engraved 'Periscope Mk IX' and is dated 1918 and carries serial number 28886. Brothers Richard and Joseph Beck formed the optical manufacturing firm of R and J Beck in 1843, based in London. The firm is remembered for helping to raise the status of the use of microscopes within scientific research but clearly in WWI this was extended to help saving lives on the battlefield.
The instrument measures 23 1/2" overall (60 cm) and has a removable varnished turned beech wood handle with a brass screw attachment point. The brass eyepiece has a focus ring on it and the optics are in good clear condition and all functions as intended a century ago! The brass body of the periscope fortunately still carries most of its original olive drab paintwork. These instruments are often found stripped and the brass body polished to a high shine but this one has fortunately avoided this fate ; as with all instruments stripping and polishing seriously reduces their value on the collectors market. The Mk IX are generally regarded as intended for use by Officers and they provided the potentially lifesaving function by enabling a clear view over the parapet of the trench into 'no man's land' without risking life and limb to the attentions of the German snipers in the opposing trench.
The history of this example is a little hazy although we do know it was picked up in the latter part of WWI as a souvenir from the trenches, together with the interesting hand bearing compass we are also listing today. That is named to an Officer of the East Lancashire Regiment and it is thought both items were acquired at the same time but this is very much family hearsay. Neither have ever been offered for sale in the last 100 years and are therefore fresh to market. A good crisp original example that will sit happily in a WWI militaria or optical collection.
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160th Field Artillery Regiment War Trophy Souvenir Flag Grouping - this flag was captured in WWII by members of the 160th Field Artillery Regiment of the 45th'Thunderbird'Infantry Division. Sadly we don't know the exact story but Joe M.Cope (of Ada Oklahoma)kindly both signed and dated the flag on November 28th 1944. Research online indicates on the 25th November 1944 the Division attacked the Fort Kaiser Wilhelm built to protect the Alsace Regions north of Mutzig, then crossed the Zintzel River and advanced through the Maginot Line. It is reasonable to assume this souvenir of war was captured at this time. On 15th December, the Thunderbirds crossed the border into Germany, making them the first US troops of the Seventh Army to enter the Hitler's ' homeland'. The 45th was activated as a National Guard Division in 1924 in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Oklahoma. The Division adopted the Thunderbird shoulder patch in 1939 after the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany which used the swastika, a symbol that bore a resemblance to the original divisional patch. The Thunderbirds were "federalized" on 16 September, 1940 after President Roosevelt declared a "limited national emergency." The unit was active throughout WWII, participating in eight campaigns, four amphibious assaults, and a total of 511 days of combat. Following World War II the division became an all Oklahoma organisation but in 1950, they were again called into service during the Korean War. We were advised when purchased the flag was captured by Luciano M. Alonzo, who was born in 1918 and lived in Maricopa, Arizona and was from a native Indian family. He died in Phoenix Arizona in 2005. This grouping includes an original Thunderbirds shoulder badge which we were told came from Luciano Alonzo's wartime uniform. The flag is also signed by a bunch of his friends including Sgt Orin Karbrud, Homer Rye, Joe Cope, Leo Huffines and others. We also have a black and white photograph that includes Alonzo (back row 3rd from right with possibly captured Nazi binoculars around his neck) together with 9 colleagues. Sadly the picture is not named so we can't tell if these were the chaps who signed the flag but seems very possible. The flag is in fine original condition, with just one small snag on the black swastika and very minor age staining. It is double sided and the colours are still bright and all the signatures, which include the signatories home towns, are readable. The grouping is completed by some limited research and ideally deserves to be on public display back in the US as a tribute to the Thunderbird Division and its men. Measures 50" x 31" (150 cm x 75 cm.)
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Model 396 LB British Extension Telephone - Not really our area of expertise but this telephone was previously displayed at an aviation museum that closed some time ago. A little research on line indicated this is a model supplied by Ericsson against number N8440-N8446. It was specifically designed for use as 'a local battery table telephone for use in C.B.S. Nos 1,2,3 magneto areas, private circuits without transmission feeds and in mobile vans'. The handset is marked 164 46/1 which we assume dates the instrument to 1946. Originally the handset was designated as a 'Hand Microtelephone', and it started the Bakelite revolution for the Post Office. Originally associated with the Telephone No 162 it saw service from the late 1920s through to the end of the 1950s and beyond. These telephones provided economically the facility for various extension schemes without the use of separate switches or switchboards.
Sadly we have no provenance with it although coming from an aviation museum it may have RAF associations but without proof we are listing in our general section on the website. All we do know, as endorsed by the card in the centre of the instrument, is it appears to have come from the Newton Abbot exchange area of Devon, south west England. It has a more modern BT cord connected at the rear but as it is untested we are offering as a display item only, but would look perfect in a period setting or an ideal stage or film prop, at a very modest price.
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Dunkirk Veterans Association Plaque - The 1940 Dunkirk Veterans' Association was an association of British service veterans "who served at Dunkirk and other ports of evacuation between 10 May and June 1940" – that is in the Dunkirk evacuation of 1940, including those who were taken prisoner. Associate membership was available to those "otherwise not qualified, but who had assisted at the ports of evacuation". It was formed in Leeds in 1953, and reached a peak membership of over 20,000 but was disbanded on 30 June 2000, after the association's 60th anniversary commemoration. Two of the 'Vets' attended the very last reunion William Stone, 99, and Joe Barnes, 74, who were joined by around 50 other members at the Imperial War Museum in south London. The last ever parade of Dunkirk veterans was held in in France the following month. My late Godfather, Douglas Hannah, was part of the BEF and one of the many who qualified for membership and was forever grateful for the arrival of those 'Little Ships', an episode in WWII history so inadequately told in the recent film of the same name.
Our plaque was previously displayed at a Devon Air Museum, that is now defunct and is named on the scroll below the coat of arms to the 'Torbay and District Branch'. The coat of arms is mounted on a hardwood shield with provision for wall hanging to the reverse. It is generally in good condition with odd marks commensurate with age and use. It measures 7" x 6" (18 cm x15 cm). Seeing the Association has been disbanded these last 18 years grab the opportunity to add this example to your collection, at a modest price, whilst the opportunity exists. When it is gone it is gone.
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WWI Mk VIII Marching Compass by S.Mordan & Co - We are pleased to offer today a WWI Verner's pattern Mk VIII prismatic marching compass, made by the firm of Sampson Mordan and is engraved on the base 'S. Mordan & Co, 63968, 1917'. It is also stamped with the British Army War department arrow property mark. The instrument is in excellent original condition, with a jewelled bearing Mother of Pearl dry card compass and the only point to mention is a part of the paint from the compass arrow is now missing. The brass case has good age patination, and has fortunately avoided the attention of the polishing brigade over the last 101 years! The compass carries a transit lock which is engaged by the lid closure.
The anti-slip rubber ring affixed to the underside of the compass, which is often absent, remains in place and is undamaged. The compass card swings freely and locks in position although we can not guarantee its current accuracy and like all stock items is for sale as an historical collectable.
What makes this example particularly interesting is it comes complete with its original leather case and shoulder strap. This is stamped with the manufacturers details French & Son Ltd London and is dated 1916. The leather is in excellent condition, the stitching is sound and it has a great patina. The cream on the cake is it has also named to the original owner and is clearly marked R.P.Delaney, Lt, East Lancashire Regiment. Lieutenant Delaney was clearly taking no chances as he has further cut his name into the reverse side of the case. In addition we have just noticed the initials R.D. marked on the base of the instrument, so clearly the set all belongs together.
The history of this compass is it was picked up in the latter stages of WWI as a souvenir together with the trench periscope we are also listing today. It is thought both items were acquired at the same time but this is very much family hearsay. Neither have ever been offered for sale in the last 100 years and are therefore fresh to market. A good crisp original example that will sit happily in a WWI militaria or instrument collection and a fine piece of Britain's WWI history.
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US M 41 Field Jacket Replica - Whilst outside of our normal area of interest this jacket came in with a small private collection we have just bought. Whist clearly second hand it seems in excellent condition and has that lived in look you never get with off the peg replicas. This design originates back in 1935, and several variations were offered up until 1941, when it was finally standardised under the description of JACKET FIELD OD. It is perhaps the most recognizable and most worn jacket of WWII and used by both U.S Army and Navy personnel.
Manufactured from beige cotton it is fitted with a quality Talon zip that is marked USA on the reverse. In addition to the zip the jacket features button closures to the front, waist and sleeve adjustments and two slash pockets.
Inside it has an olive green blanket lining and a manufacturers label showing designation' M41 Jacket Field' and is dated for authenticity 6/3/41. In addition to other details it states the manufacturer as being 'Doursoux' so we assume it is of French origin. No size is marked but we estimate this great replica would be suitable for a chest size of 39"-42" or 100 cm -107 cm. A practical and stylish summer jacket on offer at a modest price. All you now need is the Jeep to complete the look!
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WWI Verner's Mk VII Marching Compass - A fine original example of the classic British Army WWI Mk VII model. Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922) was commissioned into The Rifle Brigade in 1874 and retired in 1904. He served on the staff in the Egyptian campaign of 1884-85 and during the Boer War. Whilst the basic prismatic compass design has its origins in Schmalcalder's patent of 1812, Verners Pattern was a significant move forward. Around 1905 the term 'Verners Pattern' was first used with a Mk V model. Generally the compass card is the main area of change in the early models whilst the same basic features are displayed from the Mk V through to the Mk VIII and the Mk IX of WWII, with minor details changing depending on the manufacturer. The Mk VII is a prismatic dry card compass with a both a momentary bearing and transit lock fitted. This model is lighter than the WWII pattern that superseded it and is generally considered easier to use.
This example is in excellent issued condition. It is engrave 'B-L Made in Switzerland' on the base with serial number 27599 and a further nos 22637 stamped inside the lid. The base also carries a War department property mark arrow and the instrument is dated 1915 and it also retains its original anti slip ring which is often now missing from these compasses. It has a magnifying prism fitted for precise angle calculation for accurate target engagement. Whilst we can't guarantee the accuracy of the instrument it appears to be in good working order despite the 102 years since leaving the B-L factory and serving through at least one world war!
The leather case that comes with it is again in excellent condition with just a little wear to the carrying strap. This is clearly stamped L.F. & Co, is dated 1916 and is also broad arrow property marked. It also carries a hand written letter D on the case and D.A. on the shoulder strap possibly to identify the original ownership although details of that owner have long since been lost. The instrument measures 2.25" diameter or 5.4 cm. We believe it would be hard to find a crisper original example of this classic compass from the Great War.
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Mk III '42 Pattern' Marching Compass converted to 'Mils Mk I' Spec - A small but beautifully formed compass that clearly has a story to tell. The Mk III Marching Compass first appeared in 1932 and was issued to British and Commonwealth military personnel and was renowned for its durability and extreme accuracy. This example is clearly marked on the base with the makers details T.G. Co Ltd, London and below the serial number 178990. It is also broad arrow property marked showing its military origins and dated 1942. Interestingly the designation Mk III has been crossed through and it has been re stamped Mils Mk I and it also carries a later NATO reissue code stamp 6605-99-960-0789, added when the conversion was carried out. The '99' indicates the instrument to be of UK origin.
Further research indicates this original WWII British compass has been modified and re issued, probably to French forces, in Mk I specification and was used by them from the 1970's to the 1990's. The main difference from the Mk III variant is the original 360 degree rotating bezel has been replaced by a 6,400 mils example with 17.78 mils equal to 1 degree. This allowed the experienced user the ability to plot very accurately using the aiming posts and prism that were attached to the compass and was particularly useful in artillery, tank, and mortar gunnery.
The compass shows signs of wear with paint rubbed from the brass case but with the proliferation of fakes now being offered this adds to the authenticity of this example. The mother of pearl compass card moves freely and while we can no longer guarantee the accuracy of the instrument it appears to all be in good working order.
In summary a fine original instrument and despite being 75 years old and serving with the British and French military forces remains in fine display condition so grab a little bit of history whilst you can, at a modest price. As with all our stock additional detail photographs are available on request. Measures 2.25"diameter (6.0 cm)
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Women's Voluntary Service 'Aero-Pak' Travel Case - Another charming example that clearly has a story to tell. Like the other suitcase we have just listed it bears witness to its travels of long ago and rather like a passport it carries clues to its earlier working life in far flung locations. Some vintage luggage, like this example, enables it to tell a story a story from its applied labels and shipping marks and here we have a wealth of clues to work on.
The case is of modest dimensions at 18" x 18" x 9" (46 cm x 46 cm x 23 cm) and appears to have been the property of a lady serving with the W.V.S. Originally founded in 1938 as the Women's Voluntary Services the W.V.S. was initially formed to help recruit women into the Air Raid Precautions (ARP) movement in WWII, assisting civilians during and after air raids by providing emergency rest centres, sustenance, first aid, and perhaps most famously assisting with the evacuation and billeting of children. By 1943 the organisation had over one million volunteers and was involved in almost every aspect of wartime life. In 1966 the WVS was granted the honour of adding 'Royal' to its name and so became the W.R.V.S.
Our case carries a stencil name 'B.K.B. Jones WVS/UK' and below 'K/IE' and is also marked 'Cabin' so would have ben wanted on a sea voyage. It also carries a Cunard White Star Line 'Cabin Class J' label to the side panel and on the lid another reading 'Roma Abergo Anglo Americano'. The front panel of the case has owners initials B.K.B.J. (Bridget Jones perhaps?) as well as a metal manufactures tag reading 'Aero-Pak' and 'Deluxe Modern Luggage'. Aero Pak operated out of Petersburg, Virginia, U.S.A. and our research indicates they were formed in early 1900 and were manufacturers of 'wardrobe trunks and suitcases'.
This quality case features classic yellow stripes on the exterior with a leather covered handle again incorporating the same striped fabric. The edges of the case are covered in leather strips that show significant wear, commensurate with use. The fitted interior, which again shows signs of wear features elasticated pockets to the sides and a further larger pocket within the lid as well as tie down straps to secure items of lose clothing. We are unsure of the actual date of manufacture but at a guess say it is from the 1940's, endorsed by the Cunard White Star line sticker, as the company only operated under this name until between 1934 to 1949. This case would make a fine addition to either a W.V.S., White Star or vintage case collection and with its 'shabby chic' look and with its wealth of external makings it would also make a perfect film or stage prop for those looking for the ultimate in authenticity.
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Military Leather Suitcase - Named to Major C.H.Townsend this was clearly a very high quality case and is made of fine leather hide and solid brass fittings. What really brings it to life is the painted address and various other shipping marks; clearly Major Townsend did not want to be parted from his luggage whilst serving overseas! The case is marked to the top with the Major's name and we assume his home address which was 'Rosemount, Wellington, Shropshire, UK.Interestingly we can just make out below and now over painted 'C.H.Townsend, Gloucestershire Regiment'. The lid and front are also marked with a stylised 'M' against a red roundel which we assume to be a shipping mark for easy identification. The front and one end are also painted with 'Cabin W.O.V' indicating this was cabin baggage and 'Wanted on Voyage' so we assume this would have contained the Major personal effects.
This is an extremely heavy case, weighing in at 18 lbs (8 kilos) empty and we would imagine with its heavy brass fitting and copper riveting it would have been an expensive item in its day. We are unsure of the maker, although both locks are embossed 'British Made'. We can only guess it's date at late 19th or early 20th century. With time it may well be possible to research Major Townsend which would add further to the interest in (and value) of this piece. Whilst the case has clearly been well used and shows wear commensurate with age it exudes period charm. It would add a 'shabby chic' look to a military or Victoriana collection, whilst it would also make a perfect film or stage prop for those looking for the ultimate in authenticity. It would also be ideal for shop window display dressing.
The case measures 30" x 6"x 8" (77 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm.) In view of its size and weight please ask for a shipping quote before making any purchase decision and we of course have more detailed pictures here which are available on request.
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