The Royal Rhodesian Air Force flew English Electric Canberra Bombers. The jet engines of these aircraft were started with an explosive cartridge. The Cartridge was for use in the Rolls Royce turbo-starter Type SBS 720 Mk 1. (single chamber) as fitted to Avon 1 engines in the Canberra.
This piece is precision crafted from the spent shells of two of these brass cartridges and bear the company stamped metal "CART ELEC ENG START K 64,10". The have been finely milled so that they fit seamlessly and firmly together, with the bottom section also showing a retro-fitted internal circular section. The base is fitted with felt.
It would seem the bottom section is designed as a cigarette holder, whilst top part functions as an ash-tray. Though they can be used for other purposes.
The cartridges pre-date UDI (1965). The RRAF were unable to acquire such cartridges due to sanctions and developed their own replacement.
100mm high, 80mm wide, 235mm girth. The height of the bottom part is exactly the same as the width.
A unique item from 60+ years ago!
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- Size: 100mm x 80mm x 235mm
