British, WWII, SOE No. 8 “Ball Buster” Sabotage Mine, Relic Condition, Inert

*British, WWII, SOE No. 8 “Ball Buster” Sabotage Mine, Relic Condition, Inert*

A rare British Special Operations Executive (SOE) No. 8 “Ball Buster” sabotage mine in relic condition. Cylindrical steel body with cruciform striker plate, showing deep corrosion consistent with long-term ground recovery. The internal components and explosive charge have been completely removed, rendering the piece inert. Approx 15.2cm long, 3.3cm diameter.

Historical Note:
The SOE No. 8 mine, nicknamed the “Ball Buster,” was a small, portable explosive device issued to Special Operations Executive agents during the Second World War. Designed for sabotage missions, it could be deployed to damage machinery, vehicles, railway tracks, or other enemy infrastructure. Compact and easily concealed, the No. 8 was typically initiated by a pressure or pull fuze, allowing it to be adapted for a variety of unconventional demolition tasks. Surviving examples are scarce due to their disposable nature and the hazardous postwar disposal of remaining stocks.

*Condition*
Relic condition. Heavy surface corrosion to the steel tube and striker plate, with pitting throughout. Structural integrity remains fair despite degradation of material. All explosive content and active components absent. Inert and safe for display. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

JAQDO_2524020525