An authentic British Air Raid Precautions (ARP) Warden’s handbell, manufactured at the very outbreak of World War II.
In 1939, the British Home Office commissioned these heavy cast-brass handbells to equip Air Raid Wardens across the UK home front.
While rattles warned of gas attacks, these handbells were rung continuously through neighbourhood streets to signal the "All Clear" after a Luftwaffe bombing raid.
This particular piece is a collector's dream because it features a "Full House" of manufacturers markings across the brass body, the collar and the original turned wood handle.
Most surviving wartime bells only carry a partial stamp, making this fully attributed example incredibly rare.
Also, unlike most examples on the market which have missing or replaced parts, this bell retains its original iron chain-link assembly and heavy black-painted iron clapper.
It functions perfectly with a loud, clear, resonant ring.
The handbell is in an overall very good condition.
The cast brass body features an excellent, genuine wartime patina with authentic age-darkening and surface oxidation.
It has deliberately not been modern-cleaned or over-polished, preserving its historical integrity.
The turned wood handle remains solid, tight to the brass collar, and free of cracks and though scuffed in places it still retains its beautiful original grain and smooth finish.
The photographs are of the actual item and form part of the description.
Please examine the photographs carefully and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us.
