*British, c.1937, Royal Navy Cordite Carrier (Clarkson Case) No.58 Mk III, Barrow, Hepburn & Gale Ltd.*
A genuine Royal Navy cordite carrier, also known as a Clarkson Case, pattern No.58 Mk III, manufactured by Barrow, Hepburn & Gale Ltd., Bermondsey, London. Constructed with a cork body, canvas-lined interior, and leather outer covering, fitted with leather strap handles secured by copper rivets to reduce spark risk. The base is impressed: “No 58 / III / B.H. & G. Ltd / over “6” which may be the beginning of a serial number. To the side are the remnants of a printed King’s Crown Arms, together with the large stencilled “N” and broad-arrow property mark, and two boxed issue stamps now illegible. Measures approx. 40.2 cm tall x 22.2 cm diameter.
Historical note:
Cordite, a smokeless propellant developed in Britain in 1889, replaced gunpowder in naval artillery. To safely move these volatile bagged charges from a warship’s magazines to its guns, the Admiralty adopted the Clarkson’s Case – a flashproof, reusable carrier that protected the charges from sparks, static, and damage. Once filled, cases were hoisted mechanically to the gun decks and opened only at the point of loading, before being returned to the magazine for reuse.
The “No.58” designation refers to the pattern/size, while “Mk III” denotes the third refinement of the design. The large “N” with the War Department broad arrow confirms Royal Navy ownership. Surviving pre- and early-WW2 examples with visible crests and naval marks are highly sought after, particularly those from Barrow, Hepburn & Gale Ltd., one of the premier makers of naval leather goods in the early 20th century.
*Condition*
In good, honest condition for age and naval service use. The leather has developed a rich, dark patina with scattered scuffs, wear, and small surface losses. Original stitching and copper rivets intact; strap handles sound with edge wear. Interior canvas lining remains firm and undisturbed. Stencilled arms and markings are fragmentary but identifiable, with base stamping very clear. Lid now absent, as is common with surviving examples. A fine, authentic and displayable example of a Royal Navy cordite container. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
