THE MAIN SHIP'S BELL FROM THE ALGERINE CLASS MINESWEEPER PINCHER (J294), BUILT BY HARLAND & WOLFF, 1943

cast in brass with moulded rim, ebonised crown top suspension, black-filled lettering inscribed PINCHER over an arc dated '1943', with Government broad arrow mark to reverse, white-painted interior with clapper staple (lacking clapper) -- 13 x 13in. (33 x 33cm.); mounted on a later wooden stand -- 18 x 20in. (46 x 51cm.)

Provenance: The Algerine Association.

Essentially an enlarged 'Bangor' Class vessel, ultimately 110 of these 950 ton ships were built by yards in the UK and Canada between 1941-45. Originally intended to be turbine powered, supply issues meant that only twenty-seven were thus built, including Pincher, the rest were VTE (vertical triple expansion) engined, however both types were capable of developing 16.5 knots. Armed with a single 4in. quick-firing gun and four 40mm Bofors, they needed up to 138 crew to man them. Only half a dozen were lost on active service, including the name-ship of the Class to an Italian submarine, and most were used as anti-submarine escorts. Most of the surviving ships were sold for breaking in the 1960s with Pincher broken at Dunston in March 1962.

Condition Report

Good overall condition, some minor marks and pitting commensurate with age, no cracks.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.