Mervyn Mitton

Paul, with the late date it shows the pattern continued for a long time. The British had several types of bandoliers in the Boer War - this being one of them - the ends of the cartridges protrude through. The Boers had a similar cross belt, but to fit the Mauser ammo.. I thinke we have one - will photograph and they can be compared. However, I don't want to spoil this valuable post - which I can see becoming the ' go to' for RCMP equipment. It was good that Craig agreed to 'pin' - at least we will be able to find-it.

From reverse of scabbard. Date is 1941

An interesting question - is the number 1250 a manufacturing number - or, a serial number ? If it is the serial number, then this is early in production

We seem to have come out of the drought for edged weapons - so, herewith an interesting piece. Made by the well known firm of Collins & Co. in the United States, this heavy duty machete was intended for use in a dense jungle environment. One immediately thinks of the Pacific islands that American Forces had to fight their way through from 1941 onwards - however, this one has quite another story. It was part of a consignment sold to Britain - and was for use in the jungles of Malaya and in Central Africa. The original officer was in the famous South African regiment - The Transvaal Scottish . Strangely, after 1941 and US entry to the War, Collins could not keep-up with the demand and they were also licensed to be made in Canada.Britain had their own pattern and it was contained in a green canvas scabbard. The length overall is 19.5 inches (50cm) and the blade only - 14.5 inches (37cm) The machete is heavy as it was intended to have a strong cutting action. Total in scabbard - 954 gms.(1.8 lbs.) Blade - 731gms. (1.5 lbs) The scabbard is of fine hide and is date stamped 1941. However, the blade is 1940 so, it would seem likely they were mixed-up in the stores. Machetes in this condition are now highly sought after.

Neville, I know the one with the wreath - a picture was posted under Sgt. Mjrs. Insignia. Are you able to post a photo - would probably help one of our army experts ?

Probably by Boer snipers....

The tipstaff is 8 inches overall.

This is going to be an unusual subject under this heading. However, I am hoping that one of our members who enjoys research, may be able to help with the identity of this officer ? For those not historic Police orientated, a tipstaff was a crowned staff carried by someone with authority from the Crown. They went out of fashion in the 1880's when Warrant Cards or, I.D's were introduced. We know of only approx. 2000 and they are rare and valuable pieces. However, they were intended for the Civil Powers - Head Constables, Magistrates, Judges etc. Named to a Regt. or a Camp they are more than rare - to bear the name and rank of a Lt. - this is the only one... This tipstaff would appear to be for the reign of either William 4th.(1830-37) or, Queen Victoria (1837-1901). From the appearance, I would say 1830's-40's. It is named on the silver plaque - NIALL MOYNAHAN 2 Lt. The Irish name could be a clue and the only reason I can think for giving a low ranking officer, such an important symbol, is that he may have been with an Irish Regt. and posted with his men in support of the Civil Authorities. This will be re-posted later, under British Police - however, if any one can track the Lt. down and find out what was his unit and what he was doing, will have certainly earnt themselves a note in his history. Mervyn

William - I'm English - but enjoy Sth. Africa. I am not a 'dealer' the shop is our hobby - that parts reluctantly with items !!

Peter - Hi. Upper Norwood is one of those 1930's suburbs in London. All semi-detached and lace curtains - or, it used to be like that. The bayonet should really go with my post on Medals and Swords - Captain Perkins. He was in charge of all Boer War POW camps in Capetown. Just think - Capetown was Mil. HQ - I would think nearly every senior officer would have visited the camps - incl. Roberts - and this was the reason for a ceremonial guard. Perkins obviously kept this as a 'souvenir' - he certainly never carried-it. IM me if you have an interest? Mervyn p.s. Frogs for this period are rare nowdays.

Paul - what type of revolver are the holsters for ?

With the ' fouled anchor ' - surely it must be Naval or, Marines ?

Neville - I think Arthur is prob. right - unless, it is just an identity breast badge. I have a KZN cap badge in the shop and will take a photo. Anything to do with KZN Police is fairly hard to come by - they controlled stocks closely. Note the tusks - the elephant is the badge of the IFP Party...

Hello William (or, do you prefer Bill ?) Welcome to GMIC - with the knowledge you have shown you'll fit in very well... (We can all pick your brains !) Somehow, I seem to think I know you - or, of you ? I shall look forward to seeing posts from you. Mervyn

Thankyou Craig - that was very kind of you. I really do think this will become a well visited post.

Queen Victoria. First issued March 1898

Overall the bayonet is 17 inches ( 48cm) The length of the blade is 12 inches ( 30cm)

I am showing some pictures of this 2nd. pattern bayonet. The frog is original and was white at one time for a Ceremonial Guard at one of the POW Camps in Capetown.

Hello Alexis - welcome to GMIC. Looking at the photo my feeling would be early 20th. Century American. The cap looks the right style and they did carry their truncheons - or, nightsticks openly. However, he could also be for a Transport Police Force - or, even a security guard. He looks to be wearing a whistle. We will have to see what other members suggest ? Where do you live now - and were your family immigrants into the US - if so, where did they come from ? Might give a clue. Mervyn

Paul - do you think they will notice all the empty cases in the museum ? Seriously, an incredible collection that is so very complete. You could take years to put this all together and still not have rare items like the Commissioner's outfit. You have put a lot of work into posting all of this - however, I think it is a very worthwhile effort. For GMIC this will be the post to consult for RCMP. (How do we get this post 'pinned' ? Leigh denies responsibility for Police - I vote him-in...)

Chris - I like your helmet, but a lot of the public don't like things not to be as new. I am endlessly explaining that if a piece of silver is over 100 years old , then it must be expected to show a little wear. Unfortunately, the Jo'burg 'kugels' like everything shiny new... Do you want a WW2 helmet to go with this ? South African desert finish and with the three holes for either netting or, neck protector.