Original Item: One of a Kind. At first we felt this may have started life as an OFFICER’S SWAGGER STICK, however we have since discovered that this was apparently deliberately made as a Letter Opener. Measuring 13 1/2 inches in overall length the blade is 7 1/2 inches. The top has a glass eyed carved BRITISH BULLDOG, with silver collar engraved as follows :-
LT. W. REID R.F.C. 1915
We had previously had another piece from Lt. Reid, a Bulldog Headed Cigar case marked identically, so this may have been part of a larger set of items made in the same style.
The R.F.C. abbreviation of course stands for Royal Flying Corps, the predecessor of the Royal Air Force (R.A.F.). The cover of the cigar holder is a dramatic Bull Dog’s Head most beautifully carved. No doubt the original Pet of Lt. Reid that awaited his return from War. Dating from early in the war, this most likely accompanied the owner on many missions, hopefully successful.
A very rare and nostalgic item carried by one of England’s earliest fighter pilots with lots of research potential if you care to follow up online or with the National Army Museum in London. Ready to display!