A Fabulous and Extremely Scarce, Original, WW2 German Third Reich 'Nebelwerfer 41' Un-Fired or Failed Detonation Rocket. D-Day 'Operation Overlord' Vintage

Empty, inert and perfectly safe. This is one of the very last few we have seen in over 30 years and the first three we sold straightaway, we only have two remaining.

From a superb collection of German ordnance that has arrived. This is one of our last Nebelwerfer Rocket from this collection. Nicknamed by the allies the 'Moaning Mini' due to it's unearthly scream as it flew. An original unfired example, and a simply remarkable piece of history, from the early German Third Reich's rocket technology, and part of a superb Third Reich collection we have been thrilled to acquire. An interesting statistic, it is estimated 75% of all German hi-explosive launched combat in Caen, the Normandy campaign, primarily involved the Nebelwerfers, the rest were fired by the panzers and luftwaffe. Beautifully waffen amt marked and with original paint decoration. The Nebelwerfer ("Smoke Mortar") was a World War II German series of super weapons. They were initially developed by and assigned to the Wehrmacht's so-called "smoke troops" (Nebeltruppen). This weapon was given its name as a disinformation strategy designed to fool observers from the League of Nations, who were observing any possible infraction of the Treaty of Versailles, into thinking that it was merely a device for creating a smoke screen. However, they were primarily intended to deliver poison gas combined with smoke shells, although a high-explosive shell was developed for the Nebelwerfer from the very beginning. And then as an offensive/defensive long range battle weapon the Nebelwerfer and its crews truly came into their own. Initially, two different mortars were fielded before they were replaced by a variety of rocket launchers ranging in size from 15 to 32 centimetres (5.9 to 12.6 in). Nebeltruppen smoke troops are general chemical warfare troops, who were trained for both smoke and gas operations, and in the event of chemical warfare breaking out, the offensive role will be borne primarily by them. Specifically with reference to the use of smoke, it should be borne in mind that when smoke is required in limited areas it is produced generally by smoke-producing ammunition fired by the combat units' organic weapons, such as artillery and mortars; in operations involving the use of smoke in large quantities the specially trained and equipped, smoke troops are used. A number of these units was reported destroyed at Stalingrad. Three smoke batteries were also reported in North Africa. It was known that the Grossdeutschland Division and probably 20 divisions formed since December 1941, include a Nebelwerfer smoke battery.

"It is well to point out here that the Germans distinguish between the blinding screen and the area screen, a distinction not specifically made by General von Cochenhausen. The blinding screen is laid to blind hostile observation. The area screen is laid over an extensive area and fighting is carried out within the screen under conditions similar to a natural thick fog." The previous details were in part taken from a report on German smoke tactics in WWII, from Tactical and Technical Trends, No. 32, August 26, 1943. US War Dept.The thin walls of the rockets had the great advantage of allowing much larger quantities of gases, fluids or high-explosives to be delivered than artillery or even mortar shells of the same weight. With the exception of the Balkans Campaign, Nebelwerfers were used in every campaign of the German Army during World War II. A version of the 21 cm calibre system was even adapted for air-to-air use against Allied bombers. The name was also used to fool observers from the League of Nations, who were observing any possible infraction of the Treaty of Versailles, from discovering that the weapon could be used for explosive and toxic chemical payloads as well as the smoke rounds that the name Nebelwerfer suggested.

Rocket development had begun during the 1920s and reached fruition in the late thirties. This offered the opportunity for the Nebeltruppen to deliver large quantities of poison gas or smoke simultaneously. The first weapon to be delivered to the troops was the 15 cm Nebelwerfer 41 in 1940, after the Battle of France, a purpose-designed rocket with gas, smoke and high-explosive warheads. It, like virtually all German rocket designs, was spin-stabilized to increase accuracy. One very unusual feature was that the rocket motor was in the front, the exhaust venturi being about two-thirds down the body from the nose, with the intent to optimize the blast effect of the rocket as the warhead would still be above the ground when it detonated. This proved to greatly complicate manufacture for not much extra effect and it was not copied on later rocket designs. It was fired from a six-tube launcher mounted on a towed carriage adapted from that used by the 3.7 cm PaK 36 and had a range of 6,900 metres (7,500 yd). Rocket-projector troops are employed as battalion and regimental units, in keeping with their task of destroying hostile forces by concentrated fire. One of the advantages of the Nebelwerfer 41 is that it can mass its projectiles on a very small target area. By means of a shrewd disposition of the batteries, a carefully planned communication system, and a large number of observation posts with advanced observers, the infantry can assure for itself manoeuvrability and a concentration of its fire power upon the most important points. Projectors are placed well toward the front almost without exception, at points forward of the artillery so that they will be able to eliminate hostile command posts, destroy hostile positions, and even repulse sudden attacks effectively. The firing positions of the projectors are always carefully built up so that the weapons can give strong support to the infantry.

In Russia, during the winter of 1942-43, many breakthrough attempts by hostile forces were repulsed by direct fire from rocket-projector batteries. The projectile itself resembles a small torpedo?without propeller or tail fins. The base is flat, with slightly rounded edges. The rocket jets are located about one-third of the way up the projectile from the base, and encircle the casing. The jets are at an angle with the axis of the projectile so as to impart rotation in flight, in "turbine" fashion. The following note on the operation of the Nebelwerfer 41 is reproduced from the original WW2 German Army periodical Die Wehrmacht.

The Nebelwerfer 41, is unlimbered and placed in position by its crew of four men. As soon as the protective coverings have been removed, the projector is ready to be aimed and loaded. The ammunition is attached to the right and to the left of the projector, within easy reach, and the shells are introduced two at a time, beginning with the lower barrels and continuing upward. Meanwhile, foxholes deep enough to conceal a man in standing position have been dug about 10 to 15 yards to the side and rear of the projector. The gunners remain in these foxholes while the weapon is being fired by electrical ignition. Within 10 seconds a battery can fire 36 projectiles. These make a droning pipe-organ sound as they leave the barrels, and, while in flight, leave a trail of smoke. After a salvo has been fired, the crew quickly returns to its projectors and reloads them. Only its original empty steel shell casing and parts, no propellant, no ingnition system, thus completely safe in all regards.
No restrictions to ownership or personal display, but only for sale to over 18's.

Not suitable to Export. UK mainland delivery only. 38 inches long approx.
Copy and paste for original film of Nebelwefer in use on youtube; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtSTMYGEyaM  read more

Code: 21929

Fine, Incredibly Beautiful Presentation, King George IIIrd Brass Barrel Blunderbuss. Presented to John Holmes, of HMS Thunderer 'As A Token Of Regard' in London 1800. Potentially, It May Have Seen Service At the Battle of Trafalgar. By Thomas, of London

Finest walnut stock with wonderous patination. Excellent action and overall in superb condition. Probably by gunsmith John Thomas of Fore Street, Edmonton .

Presentation inscribed in 1800 from Vincent Drew to John Holmes. Very recent family research these past two months has determined it was presented to the Reverend John Holmes, who was the chaplain of HMS Thunderer, a '74 Gunner' Warship that was part of Nelson's fleet that served at the Battle of Trafalgar.
He joined the Thunderer in May 1805, served at battles of Cape Finisterre and Cape Trafalgar, during 1805, and was discharged from the Ship on the 26th November 1808 when the Thunderer was laid up in Ordinary at Chatham. There is no way to determine if the reverend Holmes took this blunderbuss aboard, but it is intriguing to think he may have done, and of course, if it was indeed used in the battle by the chaplain. In war, chaplains, and indeed ship's surgeons, were armed, as they were expected to have the ability to defend themselves should the need arise. In fact, by regulation, all British officers currently are required to possess {and carry in dress circumstances} a sword of combat quality, for the very same reason, unlike for example the current US armed services, where the officer's sword is regulated to be of dress quality only

In 1805 HMS Thunderer fought in Admiral Calder's fleet at the Battle of Cape Finisterre. Her captain, William Lechmere, returned to England to attend a court-martial as a witness to the events of Admiral Calder's action off Cape Finisterre at the time of the battle. Later that year she fought at the Battle of Trafalgar under the command of her First Lieutenant, John Stockham. The surgeon on board was Scotsman James Marr Brydone, the chaplain the reverend John Holmes, it was the first of the main British battle fleet to sight the Franco-Spanish fleet. Thunderer signalled the Victory and three minutes later battle orders were signalled to the British fleet beginning the Battle of Trafalgar.

Rev. John Holmes resume of service on the Thunderer;

15 Jul 1805 with the blockading squadron off Ferrol, under Sir Robert Calder : departed 30 to 40 leagues off Finisterre to intercept Franco-Spanish fleet from the West Indies. On the 22nd sighted each other. Signal made to engage the enemy - followed by the engagement.

15 Aug 1805 Victory, with Nelson onboard, departed from Portsmouth ; was joined off Plymouth by the Ajax and Thunderer on 18th ; and arrived off Cadiz 28 Sep.

10 Oct 1805 off Cadiz - the tactical preparations etc. for the forthcoming battle. 20 Oct combined fleet departed Cadiz, fleet manoeuvres.

21 Oct 1805 'England expects' signalled, the first shots of the Battle of Trafalgar are fired.

22-30 Oct 1805 losses amongst the prizes due to bad weather etc: Redoutable, Rayo, Monarca (sank) ; Fougueux, Bucentaure, Indomptable, San-Francisco-de-Asis, Aigle, Berwick (wrecked) ; Algsiras (taken into Cadiz) ; Santa-Ana, Neptuno (recaptured) ; Santisima-Trinidad (scuttled) ; Achille, Intrepide, San-Augustin (burnt)

12 Mar 1806 captured the Spanish privateer Santo Christo del Paldo, 14 guns, 67 men, off Cadiz.

8 Dec 1806 with a squadron under R.-Admiral. Sir T. Louis, anchored in Valetta harbour, and having victualled departed the 15th for Tenedos, arriving on 21st. 27th departed for the Dardanells, and anchored in Azire bay. 1 Feb the squadron returned to off Tenedos.

11 Feb-3 Mar 1807 With Sir John Duckworth on what some have described as his somewhat less than successful expedition to Constantinople. 14th anchored off Cape Janizary, ships' boats used to rescue men from the burning Ajax. 19th steered for Constantinople. 2 Mar returned to the Mediterranean.

Late 1807 stationed at Palermo.

21 Feb 1808 joined in Palermo bay by R.-Admiral Strachan's squadron.

2 Mar 1808 joined Lord Collingwood's squadron off the island of Maritimo. 6 Mar received news that the French fleet had been at sea for a month and departed in search, which continued for a week or two after the French fleet had returned to Toulon on 10 Apr. Leaving Vice-admiral Thornborough with a sufficient force to blockade Toulon, Lord Collingwood departed for Gibraltar and Cadiz, to contribute his aid to the cause of the Spanish patriots.

The Blunderbuss (born of the Dutch word "Donderbus", appropriately meaning "Thunder Pipe" or "Thunder Gun") came to prominence in the early part of the 18th Century (1701-1800) and was more akin to the modern day shotgun than a "long gun" musket or heavy pistol of the time. As such, she excelled in close-in fighting, be it within the confines of naval warfare or walled nature of the urban environment, where her spread of shot could inflict maximum damage to targets at close ranges. Its manageable size, coupled with its spread shot, ensured some level of accuracy for even the novice user and its appearance was rather intimidating to those unfortunate enough to be staring down the business end. As with modern firearms, the Blunderbuss also made for an excellent security-minded weapon and soon found popularity amongst all matter of operators - military, civilian and, of course, criminal parties - by the middle of the 1700s. Even George Washington championed the Blunderbuss for Continental Army "Dragoon" units of the burgeoning American military as opposed to the carbine this being nothing more than a full-featured long gun of lesser overall length, proving suitable for horse-mounted handling. In fact, the short-form version of the Blunderbuss came to be known as the "Dragon", giving rise to the term "Dragoon" for such gun-wielding cavalrymen. Dragoons went on to form specialized units of mounted infantrymen within their respective armies during the end of the 17th Century and into the middle of the 18th Century - in a way, becoming an evolutionary step of the fabled mounted knight of the Middle Ages. Their use of Dragons soon gave way to the widely-accepted carbine musket. The Blunderbuss was also known as the "Blunderbess" As with all our antique guns no license is required as they are all unrestricted antique collectables  read more

Code: 23068

WW2 Royal Canadian Naval Battle Flag White Ensign. Made By Piggott Brothers and Co. Bishopsgate London. His Majesty's Canadian Naval Service On Juno Beach, the D.Day Normandy Landings

HMCS Algonquin, white ensign battle flag, with original toggle and cord, on wool. Maker stamped Piggott Bros. Assigned to the 26th Destroyer Flotilla of the British Home Fleet, she left Scapa Flow with HMCS Sioux on 31 Mar 1944 to help escort the carrier attack on the Tirpitz. In Apr 1944 she escorted a similar attack on German shipping off the Lofoten Island, Norway, and on 28 May 1944 left Scapa, from whence she carried out attacks on German convoys off Norway. Taking part in D-Day operations she bombarded shore targets on the Normandy coast. As part of Operation Neptune, the HMCS Algonquin operated within Force J heading for Juno Beach and bombarded the German Nan positions on 6 June 1944 for the benefit of Canadian land forces.
Juno and or Juno Beach was one of five beaches of the Allied invasion of German-occupied France in the Normandy landings on 6 June 1944 during the Second World War. The beach spanned from Courseulles, a village just east of the British beach Gold, to Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, and just west of the British beach Sword. Taking Juno was the responsibility of the First Canadian Army, with sea transport, mine sweeping, and a naval bombardment force provided by the Royal Canadian Navy and the British Royal Navy as well as elements from the Free French, Norwegian, and other Allied navies. The objectives of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division on D-Day were to cut the Caen-Bayeux road, seize the Carpiquet airport west of Caen, and form a link between the two British beaches on either flank.

Shortly after the Battle of Normandy, the Allied troops could no longer support Allied troops because of the limit of the range of their armaments and HMCS Algonquin deployed in the North Sea as part of the fight against the German maritime forces. On 22 Aug 1944, she took off 203 of Nabob's ship's company when the latter was torpedoed in the Barents Sea. In November 1944, Algonquin was part of an attack on a German convoy that sank or destroyed seven vessels.

The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), which started the war with only 13 vessels, had 450 ships in all, plus many smaller auxiliary units, when WWII ended. This 1945 figure breaks down as follows: 2 cruisers, 17 destroyers, 68 frigates, 112 corvettes, 67 minesweepers, 12 escort ships, 75 Fairmile motor launches, 9 motor torpedo boats, 12 armoured yachts and vessels of other types. This impressive fleet made the RCN the world’s fourth naval power.

The RCN expanded greatly during the Second World War. From its modest beginnings of six ocean-going ships and 3,500 officers and men (both regular and reserve) at the outbreak of the war, it grew into a large and capable fighting force. This was important as the navy was immediately called on to help. In fact, the navy was the main thrust of Canada’s war effort in the first two years of the conflict as German U-boats again made cutting off Allied shipping a top priority and the Allied navies had to find a way to protect the merchant vessels crossing the Atlantic Ocean so supplies could reach Europe.

This “Battle of the Atlantic” was the longest and one of the most important campaigns of the Second World War — lasting from the first day of the war in 1939 until the last day of the war in Europe in 1945. Canada played a major role with the RCN assuming responsibility for escorting convoys in the northwest Atlantic — the only major theatre of the war to be commanded by Canadians. This battle also saw the Germans bring the war to our own shores. U-boats even penetrated deep into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the St. Lawrence River.

A number of German U-boats, including U-130 surrendered to the RCN after the war in Europe ended in May 1945.

It was a tough fight, but with courage and the adoption of new technology and tactics, Canada helped the Allies to victory in the Battle of the Atlantic. More than 25,000 merchant ships safely made it to their destination under Canadian escort, delivering approximately 165 million tons of vitally-needed supplies to Europe. The RCN sank or helped sink more than 30 U-boats, but at a steep price. The RCN lost 14 warships to enemy attack and another eight ships to accidents at sea during the Second World War, with approximately 2,000 losing their lives.

RCN ships also served in different ways during the war. They fought against the Japanese in the Pacific and took part in other kinds of military operations in the waters off Europe, like patrolling and mine sweeping in the English Channel and supporting Allied landings in Normandy, Sicily, mainland Italy and southern France.

At the end of the Second World War, Canada had one of the largest navies in the world with 95,000 men and women in uniform, and 434 commissioned vessels including cruisers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes and auxiliaries. It was an incredible growth that symbolizes the great contributions that Canadians made in the cause of peace and freedom during history’s largest war.

This flag has small battle scars of tears at the section near the union flag, and longer tears at the far end.

Other WW2 Royal Naval White Ensigns shown the gallery.

Second World War period Royal Navy white ensign. This flag was flown by the Naval Officer in charge of landings Reggio di Calabria, on the coast of mainland Italy, on 3 September 1943 (and also previously during the Sicily landings). It is believed to have been the first British flag to fly on the beach at Reggio during the landings of British and Canadian forces as part of 'Operation Baytown'.
&
The White Ensign from HMCS Arrowhead
In June 1941, after commissioning in the RCN, Arrowhead joined the Newfoundland Escort Force and spent the majority of 1941 escorting convoys from St. John's to Iceland. In July 1942 she joined the Gulf Escort Force and participated in the Battle of the St. Lawrence. On 31 August the U-boats U-165 and U-517 entered the St. Lawrence River. On 6 September, the convoy QS 33, escorted by Arrowhead, HMCS Truro, two motor launches and the armed yacht HMCS Raccoon was spotted by U-517. Arrowhead detected U-517 and attempted to sink the submarine. See
https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30016656
Also a WW1 Battle Flag white ensign of HMS Cornwall from the Battle of the Falkland Islands December 1914

Photo 9 in the gallery is of a similar WW2 White Ensign Battle Flag {but without battle scars} sold in New York in 2015
A Royal Navy White Ensign Battle Flag, C.1940 from an unknown vessel.
25 x 54 in (63.5 x 137 cm)
THE WORLD WAR II 70TH ANNIVERSARY SALE, Bonhams
29 April 2015, 10:00 EDT
New York
Estimate sale price US$3,000 - US$5,000


The flag is 57 inches by 103 inches

Another Royal Naval white ensign battle flag, raised on Sword Beach at the commencement of the Normandy landings sold in 2016  read more

Code: 25660

A Battle of Agincourt, From the Reign of King Henry Vth, 'Flesh Cutter" Welsh or English Longbowman's Arrowhead, 1415, Battlefield Recovered In the 1820's as A 'Grand Tour Souvenir'

Yet another small part of our wondrous, historical, and original Ancient Roman, Ancient Greek, Viking, Crusaders, and Medeavil battlefield antiquities and artefacts, another collection that has just arrived with us. Act fast though, the collection was small, from the same Grand Tour collector's family, and selling fast!!

A Battle of Agincourt Tanged 'Flesh Cutter" Arrowhead, 1415, Battlefield Recovered In the 1820's as A 'Grand Tour Souvenir'Acquired by the Hamilton family in the 1820's while on a Grand Tour of Anglo French battle sites within Northern & Western France from Azincourt, in the Pas-de-Calais, to Poitiers in Aquitaine.

Most English war arrows for Longbows could vary, and some archers would have some type known as a "Flesh Cutter" since their job was Broadheads were for targeting un-armoured men and knight's horses.

After several decades of relative peace, the English had renewed their war effort in 1415 amid the failure of negotiations with the French. In the ensuing campaign, many soldiers perished due to disease and the English numbers dwindled, but as they tried to withdraw to English-held Calais they found their path blocked by a considerably larger French army. Despite the disadvantage, the following battle ended in an overwhelming tactical victory for the English.

King Henry V of England led his troops into battle and participated in hand-to-hand fighting. The French king of the time, Charles VI, did not command the French army himself, as he suffered from severe psychotic illnesses with moderate mental incapacitation. Instead, the French were commanded by Constable Charles d'Albret and various prominent French noblemen of the Armagnac party.

This battle is notable for the use of the English longbow in very large numbers, with the English and Welsh archers forming up to 80 percent of Henry's army. The decimation of the French cavalry at their hands is regarded as an indicator of the decline of cavalry and the beginning of the dominance of ranged weapons on the battlefield.

Agincourt is one of England's most celebrated victories. The battle is the centrepiece of the play Henry V by Shakespeare. Juliet Barker in her book Agincourt: The King, the Campaign, the Battle ( published in 2005) argues the English and Welsh were outnumbered "at least four to one and possibly as much as six to one". She suggests figures of about 6,000 for the English and 36,000 for the French, based on the Gesta Henrici's figures of 5,000 archers and 900 men-at-arms for the English, and Jean de Wavrin's statement "that the French were six times more numerous than the English". The 2009 Encyclopædia Britannica uses the figures of about 6,000 for the English and 20,000 to 30,000 for the French. Part of an original medieval collection we have just acquired, of Viking and early British relics of warfare from ancient battle sites recovered up to 220 years ago.

Bodkins had a greater ability to pierce mail armour than broadheads, and historical accounts do speak of bodkin arrows shot from close range piercing plate armour. Broadheads were made from steel, sometimes with hardened edges, but were more often used against lightly armoured men or horses than against an armoured adversary.

Armour of the medieval era was not completely proof against arrows until the specialised armour of the Italian city-state mercenary companies. Archery was thought not to be effective against plate armour in the Battle of Neville's Cross (1346), the Battle of Bergerac (1345), and the Battle of Poitiers (1356); such armour became available to European knights and men at arms of fairly modest means by the late 14th century, though never to all soldiers in any army.

Most of our antiquities and artefacts are from 200 year past souvenir accumulations from British ‘Grand Tours’. Beautiful Items and antiquities were oft acquired in the 18th and early 19th century by British noblemen and women touring battle sites in Northern France and Italy, in fact most of Europe and the Middle East, on their so-called ‘Grand Tour’. They were often placed on display upon their return home, within the family’s 'cabinet of curiosities', within their country house. Some significant British stately homes had entire galleries displaying the treasures and artefacts gathered and purchased on such tours, and some tours lasted many years, and the accumulated souvenirs numbered in their hundreds or even thousands. A popular pastime in the 18th and 19th century, comprised of English ladies and gentlemen traveling for many months, or even years, throughout classical Europe, and the Middle East, acquiring knowledge and education on the arts, and thus returning with antiquities and antiques as souvenirs for their private collections, and these travels have been thus called ‘Grand Tours’.  read more

Code: 25669

A Fine Edo Period {1600-1868} Samurai Pole Arm Yari, A Hira Sankaku Yari, The Samurai's Combat Lance With Full Tang and its Original Long Haft With Abilone Shell Decor

A super antique samurai's combat pole arm with a three sided blade in the form of an Isosceles triangle with a very sharp point and two sharp edges on a sockle, in beautiful polish, with narrow suguha hamon, and a full length tang. Mounted in its original haft of traditional form, with copper banding and the top section decorated with crushed abilone shell under urushi lacquer. Interestingly, the nakago {tang} has two clear and obvious filed edge notches {see photo}. In the world of arms such concealed notches go back centuries, and often could be symbolic of victories in combat. This might be for single hand to hand combat, or, for a combined victory in a battle. This aspect would only be known by the combatant that created them, but they are immensely intriguing as to the specific combat events that they represent.

Ideal for use by samurai both on foot and horseback and especially effective as an armour piercing blade.

Yari is the Japanese term for a spear, but technically it is actually a lance, or more specifically, the straight-headed lance.

The martial art of wielding the yari is called sojutsu. A yari can range in length from one metre to upwards of six metres (3.3 to 20 feet). The longer versions were called omi no yari while shorter ones were known as mochi yari or tae yari. The longest versions were carried by foot troops (ashigaru), while samurai usually carried a shorter yari , up to around 8 feet long, such as this example. Yari are believed to have been derived from Chinese spears, and while they were present in early Japan's history they did not become popular until the thirteenth century.
The original warfare of the bushi was not a thing for "commoners"; it was a ritualized combat usually between two warriors who may challenge each other via horseback archery and sword duels. However, the attempted Mongol invasions of Japan in 1274 and 1281 changed Japanese weaponry and warfare.
The Mongol-employed Chinese and Korean footmen wielded long pikes, fought in tight formation, and moved in large units to stave off cavalry. Polearms (including naginata and yari) were of much greater military use than swords, due to their much greater range, their lesser weight per unit length (though overall a polearm would be fairly hefty), and their great piercing ability. Swords in a full battle situation were therefore relegated to emergency sidearm status from the Heian through the Muromachi periods. Around later half of sixteenth century, ashigaru holding pikes (naga yari) with length of 4.5 to 6.5 m (15 to 22 feet) or sometimes 10 m became main forces in armies. They formed lines, combined with harquebusiers and short spearmen. Pikemen formed two or three row of line, and were forced to move up and down their pikes in unison under the command.Yari overtook the popularity of the daikyu for the samurai, and foot troops (ashigaru) used them extensively as well
Various types of yari points or blades existed. The most common blade was a straight, flat, design that resembles a straight-bladed double edged dagger. This type of blade could cut as well as stab and was sharpened like a razor edge. Though yari is a catchall for spear, it is usually distinguished between kama yari, which have additional horizontal blades, and simple su yari (choku-so) or straight spears. Yari can also be distinguished by the types of blade cross section: The triangular sections were called sankaku yari and hira sankuku, the latter for Isosceles of two equal sides as opposed to three.
This hira sankaku yari has clearly seen combat service as the blade has an impact curvature.

92 inches long overall mounted upon its original Edo pole {haft}, the steel blade is 6 inches long, plus the nakago which is 9.25 inches. Total 15.25 inches long.

In its full length, upon its haft, regular export delivery is not available. UK mainland delivery is available though for its full and complete length. In museum collections only the blade is displayed, with the haft, if kept at all, stored separately.  read more

Code: 25665

A n Original 1870's Victorian the 9th Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada, 9th Voltiguers De Quebec Shako Plate. The Oldest French Canadian Regiment.

A very good and rare large helmet plate of the Canadian Light Infantry volunteers.
3 loop pin mounting posts. In superb condition.

The '9' unit mark denotes issue to the 9th Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada (Voltigeurs de Quebec). They were one of the units mobilized and sent out west during the 1885 North West Rebellion. The unit was established in 1862.
The North-West Rebellion (or the North-West Resistance, Saskatchewan Rebellion, Northwest Uprising, or Second Riel Rebellion) of 1885 was a brief and unsuccessful uprising by the Metis people under Louis Riel, and an associated uprising by First Nations Cree and Assiniboine, of the District of Saskatchewan against the government of Canada. During a time of great social change in Western Canada, the Metis believed that the Canadians had failed to address the protection of their rights, their land and their survival as a distinct people. Despite some notable early victories at Duck Lake, Fish Creek and Cut Knife, the rebellion ended when the Metis were defeated at the siege of Batoche, Saskatchewan, the eventual scattering of their allied Aboriginal forces and the trial and hanging of Louis Riel and eight First Nations leaders.

Tensions between French Canada and English Canada increased for some time. Due to the role that the Canadian Pacific Railway played in transporting troops, but political support for it increased, and Parliament authorized funds to complete the country's first transcontinental railway.

It was redesignated the 9th Regiment Voltigeurs de Québec on 8 May 1900, and, following the Great War, Les Voltigeurs de Québec on 29 March 1920. During the Second World War it was designated the 2nd (Reserve) Battalion, Les Voltigeurs de Québec on 10 May 1941 and Les Voltigeurs de Québec (Reserve) on 15 September 1944. After the Second World War it was designated Les Voltigeurs de Québec (Motor) on 1 April 1946. On 1 September 1954, it was amalgamated with Le Régiment de Québec (Mitrailleuses) and redesignated Les Voltigeurs de Québec (Mitrailleuses). It was, again, redesignated Les Voltigeurs de Québec on 11 April 1958. On 22 February 1965, the regiment was amalgamated with The Royal Rifles of Canada. The two regiments ceased to be amalgamated on 1 November 1966 and the “Voltigeurs de Quebec” continue as an active infantry regiment on the Canadian order of battle.


4 inches high.
Photo four in the gallery shows another helmet plate mounted upon its Shako  read more

Code: 18971

An Original, Zulu War Period, Antique Zulu King's 'Prestige Sceptre', Dating For The Reign of the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War King, Cetshwayo. A Fabulous Carved Ubhejane Royal Sceptre Knopkerrie, Circa 1860's to1870

A very special item indeed, showing amazing age patination, beautiful golden yellow colouring, and for those with serious interest in original and unique Zulu War artefacts.

The Anglo-Zulu War was fought in 1879 between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom. Following the passing of the British North America Act of 1867 forming a federation in Canada, Lord Carnarvon thought that a similar political effort, coupled with military campaigns, might succeed with the African Kingdoms, tribal areas and Boer republics in South Africa. In 1874, Sir Bartle Frere was sent to South Africa as High Commissioner for the British Empire to effect such plans. Among the obstacles were the armed independent states of the South African Republic and the Kingdom of Zululand.

Frere, on his own initiative, sent a provocative ultimatum on 11 December 1878 to the Zulu king Cetshwayo and upon its rejection sent Lord Chelmsford to invade Zululand.The war is notable for several particularly bloody battles see below, including an opening victory of the Zulu at the Battle of Isandlwana, followed by the defence of Rorke's Drift by a small British force from attack by a large Zulu force. The British eventually won the war, ending Zulu dominance of the region.

Battle of Isandlwana; the battle fought on 22nd January 1879, at which the Zulus wiped out a substantial British force, including the 1st Battalion, 24th Foot and rocked Victorian society.

Battle of Rorke’s Drift; the iconic defence of the mission station in Natal on 22nd January 1879, by a small force of British and colonial troops; winning a record number of Victoria Crosses and inspiring Victorian Britain.

Battle of Khambula; the defeat by Colonel Evelyn Wood of a Zulu army on 29th March 1879, in the opening stages of the Zulu War.

Battle of Gingindlovu; the battle fought on 2nd April 1879, where Lord Chelmsford defeated a Zulu army on his route to overwhelming the Zulu nation at Ulundi.

Battle of Ulundi: The final battle of the Zulu War, fought on 4th July 1879, where Lord Chelmsford’s troops destroyed the army of the Zulu King Cetshwayo.

This fabulous sceptre would have been made only for the use of the Zulu king during the 1860’s and 1870’s, and would have been both prestigious and also powerful; the strength of the animal from which it was taken gave it enormous potency and therefore only a King, a great medicine man, could own it.

Sceptres with heads of this size were outlawed in the Victorian era by the government who passed a law stating that the diameter of the head had to be of a size small enough to fit into the owner's mouth. This one won’t fit in most mouths

Gifted to the previous current owner by a Zulu Prince in the 1960’s, probably the most significant piece from the Zulu War we have seen. Not suitable for export

Approx 23 inches long

Sold with approval of worked item (EC Regulation 865/2006, Article 62(3) - 453-11/12. Therefore this club can be legally traded in the UK without the need for further CITES certification.  read more

Code: 24574

An Antique Ethiopian Shotel - Gorode Officer's Sword Of Emperor Menelik IInd's Reign, & Then Into Emperor Halie Selassie's Reign, the Last Ethiopian Emperor

Curved blade fully etched in its tooled red leather scabbard. These very unusual swords with very curved blades come from the "Horn of Africa," which includes Abyssinia, which we now know as Ethiopia. Made famous just before WWII by the Italian Invasion of that Country, and the appeal by it's Emperor Haile Selassie to the League of Nations, which the Western Powers basically ignored. It's Capital is Addis Ababa, a city dating back some 2,000 years and more. A country much in the news but also a land largely still in the middle ages in some respects.
The sword, oft described as a shotel but actually it is a gorade, with its very characteristic curved blade. The swords dates back to the reign of Amda Seyon the 1st, known as "the Pillar of Zion" who was Emperor from 1314 - 1344. Called shotel, while technically the proper term locally for sabre was 'gorade'. Shotel which is not an Amharic word, Amharic for sword is gorade .The blade is etched with the profile of Emperor Menelik II, and also the symbol of the emperor, the Lion of Judah. The rest of the blade is etched with fancy scrolls. Menelik II baptised as Sahle Maryam (17 August 1844 – 12 December 1913) was Emperor of Ethiopia from 1889 to his death in 1913 and King of Shewa from 1866 to 1889. At the height of his internal power and external prestige, the process of territorial expansion and creation of the modern empire-state was completed by 1898. He is widely honoured by many Ethiopians and commemorated during the celebration of the Battle of Adwa, which is celebrated on March 1 or 2 across Ethiopia and in the diaspora. Many Pan-Africans regard him as an advocate for African independence against European powers during the Scramble for Africa. Selassie
Haile Selassie was one of the most famous leaders in Ethiopian history. As the emperor, he was exiled during the Italian occupation of Ethiopia due to the status he held. Selassie would go onto return to Ethiopia and help in taking back control of the country from Italy. On April 2, 1930, Ras Tafari Makonnen became Emperor Haile Selassie. Selassie was the last reigning monarch of Ethiopia’s Solomonic Dynasty. The Solomonic Dynasty traces its ancient ancestry to King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba, biblical figures who may have lived during the 10th century BCE.

Ethiopia is often acknowledged as the only nation in Africa never to have been colonized, and Selassie emerged as a powerful international figure as other African countries sought independence in the 20th century. His long reign and enduring policies (such as support for African unity and the abolition of slavery in Ethiopia) earned him a privileged position at international summits. For instance, Selassie was one of the highest-ranking diplomats at the funeral of U.S. President John Kennedy.

Selassie’s greatest impact may have been on the island of Jamaica. Jamaican religious leaders adopted a version of his birth name, Tafari (Ras was an official title) and Rastafarians regard Selassie as a god. (Selassie himself remained a Christian throughout his life.). Photo in the gallery of Emperor Hallie Selassie in full dress uniform. 37.5 inches long overall in scabbard, blade 30 inch blade  read more

Code: 23573

A Most Scarce 16th Century Indian 'Firangi' Battle Sword Circa 1500's Basket Hilt Form

From a family armoury collection originally housed in a castle in Scotland, accumulated over 4 centuries.

The name ‘Firangi’ (Foreigner) was apparently given to these swords somewhat later in the 17th Century, as they were mounted with European (Foreign) blades, imported by the Portugese, which were highly valued. Some blades were locally made in the European style. The blades were mounted on the Khanda style hilt and with the long spike extending from the pommel which enabled them to be used as two handed swords. The firangi sword characteristically had a straight blade of backsword form (single edged). The blade often incorporated one, two, or three fullers (grooves) and had a spear-tip shaped point. The sword could be used to both cut and thrust. Examples with narrow rapier blades have survived, though in small numbers. The hilt was of the type sometimes called the "Indian basket-hilt" and was identical to that of another Indian straight-bladed sword the khanda. The hilt afforded a substantial amount of protection for the hand and had a prominent spike projecting from the pommel which could be grasped, resulting in a two-handed capability for the sword. Like other contemporary Indian swords the hilt of the firangi was usually of iron and the tang of the blade was attached to the hilt using a very strong resin, additionally, the hilt to blade connection was reinforced by projections from the hilt onto either face of the forte of the blade which were riveted together though a hole passing through the blade. Because of its length the firangi is usually regarded as primarily a cavalry weapon. Illustrations suggest a 16th-century date for the development of the sword, though early examples appear to have had simpler cross-guard hilts, similar to those of the talwar. The sword has been especially associated with the Marathas, who were famed for their cavalry. However, the firangi was widely used by the Mughals and those peoples who came under their rule, including Sikhs and Rajputs. Images of Mughal potentates holding firangis, or accompanied by retainers carrying their masters' firangis, suggest that the sword became a symbol of martial virtue and power. Photographs of Indian officers of Hodson's Horse (an irregular cavalry unit raised by the British) show that the firangi was still in active use at the time of the Indian Mutiny in 1857-58 The khanda can generally be a double-edge but can be a single edged straight sword. It is often featured in religious iconography, theatre and art depicting the ancient history of India. Some communities venerate the weapon as a symbol of Shiva. It is a common weapon in the martial arts in the Indian subcontinent. Khanda often appears in Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh scriptures and art The word khanda has its origins in the Sanskrit meaning "to break, divide, cut, destroy". Used from the time of Abu'l-Fath Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar (15 October 1542 - 27 October 1605 ), popularly known as Akbar I literally "the great" and later Akbar the Great, he was the third Mughal emperor, who reigned from 1556 to 1605.
29 inch blade to hilt, 35 inches overall  read more

Code: 20871

A Superb 60 Million Year Old Otodus Shark's Tooth in Matrix Block Fossil with Large Cusps. The Ancestor of the Megaladon The Giant Great White Type Shark

This would make a fabulous and incredibly unusual and original gift for a loved one. it would make a fabulous desk ornament or cabinet piece

The term matrix refers to the natural rock surrounding a fossil. In the case of fossil bones or teeth encased in rock, the matrix consists of the loose sediments that originally buried the bones, sediments that were later transformed into rock over long stretches of time by the pressure of other sediment layers deposited above them.

The Otodus of 60 million years ago was up to 40 foot long and the Megalodon of 20 million years ago was up to 60 foot long.

A stunning large Otodus shark's tooth fossil in a large matrix block in super condition. One of a small collection we have just been delighted to acquire. It would make a stunning desk ornament, as an impressive collector's item and conversation piece. Otodus is an extinct genus of shark which lived from the Paleocene to the Miocene epoch.
Otodus likely preyed upon large bony fish, other sharks, and from the Eocene until the genus' extinct during the Miocene, marine mammals. It was among the top predators of its time.The fossils of Otodus indicate that it was a very large macro-predatory shark. The vertebral centrum of this shark are over 12.7 cm (5 inch) wide. Scientists suggest that this shark at least reached 9.1 metres (30 ft) in total length, with a maximum length of 12.2 metres (40 ft) The Paleocene Epoch is bracketed by two major events in Earth's history. It started with the mass extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous, known as the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) boundary. This was a time marked by the demise of non-avian dinosaurs, giant marine reptiles and much other fauna and flora. The die-off of the dinosaurs left unfilled ecological niches worldwide. The Paleocene ended with the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum, a geologically brief (0.2 million year) interval characterised by extreme changes in climate and carbon cycling. The otodus was likely the ancestor of the Giant White Megaladon shark of 40 million years later. This tooth was sold on day 1 but we have two others very similar around the same size, the price is the same. As with all our items it comes complete with our certificate of authenticity.

Overall 7 x 8 cm  read more

Code: 24913