World War I British Military Acme Thunderer Whistle - Personally Marked B.R.(W)

An interesting First World War period English Acme Thunderer whistle, manufactured in England and dating to the early 20th century. The whistle is clearly stamped to the front: THE ACME THUNDERER MADE IN ENGLAND It is of particular interest is the neatly engraved ownership or identification mark “B.R.(W)” to one side. This gives the piece considerably more character than an anonymous example and may potentially relate to its original owner, unit or organisation, although without supporting provenance the precise meaning cannot be confirmed. The whistle retains its original-style suspension ring and has an attractive aged surface with wear consistent with considerable handling and use. The darkened ring and wear around the suspension point are particularly pleasing and give the piece an authentic period appearance. The Acme Thunderer was produced by J. Hudson & Co. of Birmingham, one of Britain's most important whistle manufacturers. Thunderer whistles became widely associated with the military, police, railway, sporting and other official uses. This is an appealing small piece of WWI-era British social and military history, particularly suitable for a collection of Great War equipment, whistles, trench artefacts or militaria. Maker: J. Hudson & Co., Birmingham Model: The Acme Thunderer Period: Early 20th century / WWI era Material: Metal Additional engraving: “B.R.(W)”