Original Item: One of a Kind. Originating from the British Estate as our “NELSON’S BAND OF BROTHERS” one pint tankard, this lidded copper tankard regrettably was, no doubt unintentionally vigorously polished, removing virtually all the exterior SILVER plating on the exterior. Only the underside of the lid has remained as it was when new, and it also was made with an opening in the top, where a King George the Third Silver Coin was soldered in place. The exterior is worn, but on the inside the condition is nearly MINT, showing the full markings and other fine designs.
The tankard seems to be about a Quart in capacity, with a bulbous body and the usual ear shaped handle. Closed it measures 8 inches tall, and is 4 1/4 inches across the base, though the lid is 4 3/4 inches wide, covering the 4 inch mouth of the tankard. We were not able to see any maker markings or proofs on this lovely tankard, so it was definitely a custom made example.
The Quart Tankard’s bulbous body engraved with a fantastic illustration of “H.M.S. AUDACIOUS”, a 74 Gun Third Rate Ship of the Line launched in Rotherhithe in 1785 and Broken up in 1815. She saw service during the Napoleonic Wars, participating in some smaller actions before the outbreak of full-scale war. She also took part in the Battle of the Nile, under Captain Davidge Gould, where she engaged the French ship Conquérant and helped to force her surrender.
Definitely a lovely example with some great potential for further research!