*British, WW1, HMS L2 – Original Photograph and Small Brass Relief Model of L-Class Submarine*
A small unnamed brass relief submarine model – possibly L-Class. Accompanied by an Original Photograph of HMS L2. This photograph originally formed part of the Lou Britton British Submarine Collection, which was acquired by the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Gosport in 2007. The HMS L2 was an L-class submarine built for the Royal Navy during World War I, launched on 6 July 1917 and commissioned on 18 December 1917.
Approximate Measurements:
Brass Relief Model: 15cm x 5cm tall x 0.8cm wide, integrated stand 1.8cm wide
Photograph: 18cm x 12.8cm
Design and Features
The L-class submarines were larger and improved versions of the E class, measuring 231 feet (70.4 m) in length with a beam of 23.5 feet (7.2 m) and a draft of 13.3 feet (4 m). They displaced 891 long tons on the surface and 1,074 long tons submerged, with a crew of 35. Powered by twin 1,200 bhp diesel engines for surface propulsion and 600 hp electric motors for submerged operations, they achieved speeds of 17 knots (surface) and 10.5 knots (submerged), with a range of 3,200 nautical miles at 10 knots. The submarines were armed with six 18-inch torpedo tubes—four in the bow and two in broadside mounts—with ten reloads. Initially equipped with a 3-inch anti-aircraft gun, L2 later received a 4-inch deck gun.
Service History
Originally laid down as E-class submarine E58 on 18 May 1916, L2 was reclassified as part of the new L-class. During World War I, she narrowly survived a friendly fire incident on 24 February 1918 when mistaken for a German U-boat by three U.S. Navy destroyers off Ireland. Depth charges caused significant damage, forcing L2 to surface under challenging conditions. After identifying herself, the destroyers ceased fire, and L2 was escorted to Berehaven, Ireland. Both L2’s crew and the U.S. destroyers were commended for their actions.
In 1919, L2 joined the 4th Submarine Flotilla, sailing to Hong Kong aboard HMS Titania. She was placed in reserve there in 1923. L2 was sold in March 1930 and scrapped in Grays, Essex, in April that year.
*Condition*
Excellent used condition. Model has expected minor scratches. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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