~ Circa 1943 Admiralty Pattern 1038 Portable Visual Signalling Lantern ~
This device uses an Edison Mazda 1W 2V bulb, Patt 1039A and was powered by a rechargeable battery which would be placed in the box slung beneath the instrument.
It was used for night-time convoy identification, hence the reason for using a low power (1 watt) bulb. In the RCN, it was used at close quarters but night time only.
The operator can select one of five coloured lenses – blue, red, green, white or clear.
On the inside of the lid the label reads : “Admiralty Pattern 1038. Lantern Signalling Portable. For V/S.(Visual Signalling), serial No D.S.4942, year 1943” followed by usage instructions.
~ Dimensions ~
The box has a width of 5 inches (12.7 cm), a depth of 3.5 inches (8.8 cm) & a height of 7.5 inches (19 cm). It weighs 1.77 Kg.
~ Condition ~
There is some wear & paint chips to the metal. The glass and internals are all in good order.
It has not been tested.