WW2 British 2-inch mortar bomb converted to trench-art ornament, complete with six-fin tail and stamped “S9826” and “92” — a solid, evocative wartime display piece.
A genuine World War II British 2-inch mortar bomb body and fin assembly later converted into a trench-art desk ornament or paperweight. The piece is constructed from turned steel with a distinct joint at the mid-band, and fitted with a six-fin tail unit featuring brass fin plates with traces of original black paint. The fuse well at the nose has been closed, and the shell is mounted securely to a circular steel base for display. It stands 27.9 cm tall, measures 5.1 cm across the fins, and has a base diameter of 9.3 cm. Markings include “S9826” stamped to the body and “92” near the lower section, consistent with British lot and inspection numbering. Crafted from steel and brass, this well-balanced and entirely inert piece displays honest age and a pleasing patina.
Historical Note: The Ordnance ML 2-inch mortar was the standard light mortar used by British and Commonwealth infantry throughout the Second World War. Compact and easily portable, it fired high-explosive, smoke, and illumination bombs to ranges of up to 500 yards. It saw extensive service across all major theatres, from France and North Africa to Italy, Burma, and Northwest Europe. Once rendered safe, spent or damaged mortar rounds were often salvaged by soldiers or armourers and transformed into decorative souvenirs such as paperweights, lamps, or presentation trophies—classic examples of wartime trench art. The six-fin tail design seen on this example corresponds with wartime practice and HE types, and the markings are typical of mid-war production batches.
*Condition* The mortar displays an attractive, naturally aged surface with minor pitting and oxidation throughout, characteristic of its age and material. The steel body retains a dull silver tone with scattered darker patches, while remnants of the original black finish remain visible on the tail. The brass fins show light bending and darkened lacquer consistent with age. The body is firmly secured to the base, which has been fitted post-war for stability. The piece is solid, inert, and ready for display. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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