RAF Trench Art 20 MM Shell Case Trench Art Lighter

Another fine example from the small collection we have just purchased. This one is free standing and whilst inert appears never to have been fired. The head stamp is clearly visible and is embossed 'BBC 1941 20 MM' Online research throws up some confusion over the manufacturer. Some chat rooms indicate this was made by the British manufacturer 'Barking Brassware Company', who apparently only made ammunition for the 20mm Hispano, so seems to fit the bill. Others state it was made by the 'Bridgeport Brass Company of Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA', who also manufactured 20mm Hispano-Suiza cartridges. Seeing the items clear RAF origins we are inclined to think this is from the British Company but stand to be corrected by any 'armchair experts' out there! The Hispano-Suiza 20 MM HS-404 equipped virtually every British fighter aircraft during WWII including later Mks of the Spitfire, Hurricane, Typhoon, Tempest, Mosquito, Whirlwind, Beaufighter, P38 Lightning and many more. After some early teething troubles it proved to be an extremely effective weapon in both he air to air and ground strafing roles.

This example is in first class condition with the front having a Kings Crown attached and a large RAF eagle below and despite its origins now being lost it is safe to assume this would have originated from an RAF station in WWII. The cannon shell itself retains its copper band and interestingly the beautifully engineered brass head unscrews to reveal a hollow interior which would originally have held high explosives. The shell case has been sectioned and the top part is removable which then reveals a lighter mechanism fitted inside of near identical construction to the other example we have also just listed (Item OC319).We have not attempted to get this working and we can no longer guarantee its original purpose although it does look complete. Despite being inert to avoid postage issues at customs we are restricting the sale of this item to UK customers only. Measures 7.25" tall (18.5 cm)