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Auction: 23002 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 153

Sold by Order of a Direct Descendant

The ship's bell of H.M. Submarine E-53, commanded by Captain J. B. Glencross D.S.O., R.N. upon her launch in February 1916

Brass ship's bell, 220mm x 270mm, inscribed to the front 'H.M. Submarine 'E' 53 Launched. Feby. 1916.' and marked with a broad 'War Department' arrow to the back, stamped '12 A' to top, complete with original clapper, hung from a wooden stand, this 360mm x 540mm, some cracking and chipping to black inscription, a rare survivor from the early years of submarine warfare, very fine

H.M. Submarine E-53 was built by William Beardmore & Company of Dalmuir, Glasgow and commissioned in March 1916; E-class submarines were the backbone of the British submarine fleet during the Great War, and were armed with a 12-pdr. Q.F. gun forward of the conning tower and five 18-inch torpedo tubes. E 53 survived the war and was sold for scrap on 6 September 1922.

For the medals of her first commander, Captain J.B. Glencross, and a biographical note (including photograph albums featuring original images of this submarine) please see Lot 80.

Please note that due to the size and weight of this Lot, collection is advised.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£1,500

Starting price
£160