British, WW1, No. 5 Mk I “Mills Bomb” Hand Grenade, Relic Condition, Inert

*British, WW1, No. 5 Mk I “Mills Bomb” Hand Grenade, Relic Condition, Inert*

A First World War period British No. 5 Mk I Mills bomb hand grenade in relic condition. Constructed of cast iron, the body retains its characteristic 16-panel segmented pattern, designed to aid fragmentation. The grenade retains its integral base plug, though heavily corroded, with the fuze well open and striker mechanism absent. Heavy surface oxidation and pitting throughout, consistent with long-term burial or ground recovery.

Historical Note:
The Mills bomb, introduced in 1915 by designer William Mills of Birmingham, was the first modern fragmentation grenade widely adopted by the British Army. Designated the No. 5 Mk I, it was used extensively from 1915 onwards, with later refinements leading to the No. 23 and No. 36 variants. The grenade’s distinctive segmented body was intended to improve fragmentation upon detonation, although the pattern was largely for grip. It remained in service throughout the First World War and beyond, becoming an iconic symbol of trench warfare.

Condition*
Relic condition with extensive corrosion and pitting over all surfaces. The cast iron body remains intact with its original form clearly discernible. The base plug is still present, though heavily corroded and partially fused to the body. The fuze well is open with no remaining striker, lever, or detonator components. No filler or explosive content remains. Stable for display, a well-preserved battlefield recovery example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

JAQDO_2518020525