*British, WWII, RAF / MI9 Type Miniature Escape Compass (“Button Compass”)*
A scarce and highly collectible miniature WWII-era escape and evasion compass, commonly referred to as a “button” or “pillbox” compass, of the type associated with British RAF aircrew escape kits and MI9-issued concealment equipment.
This example measures approximately just 1cm in diameter and 0.4cm in depth, placing it firmly within the ultra-compact concealed compass category designed for discreet survival use behind enemy lines. The brass-bodied circular case retains its original dark painted finish to the sides, with a glazed top protecting the distinctive black star-form compass card beneath. The small red-painted directional marker to one point indicates north orientation, allowing basic navigation despite the extremely compact format.
Unlike larger standard service compasses, these were intentionally engineered for concealment and escape work—small enough to be hidden inside uniforms, shaving kits, hollowed personal items, pipes, pencils, cigarette holders, or sewn into clothing seams. MI9, the British military’s secret escape and evasion department, supplied such items to RAF aircrew, SOE agents, and special operations personnel operating in occupied Europe.
While many RAF/SOE escape compasses were highly utilitarian brass or aluminium forms with simple luminous dots, examples with enclosed glazed brass cases and star rotors such as this are particularly desirable and strongly associated with covert issue and concealed escape kits.
Approx. Measurements – Diameter: 1 cm. Depth: 0.4 cm.
A superb and very displayable piece of WWII escape and evasion equipment, with strong RAF, SOE, and special operations collecting appeal.
History Note:
During WWII, MI9 developed a wide range of hidden survival tools to assist downed RAF pilots and escaped POWs in returning to Allied lines. Miniature compasses were among the most important of these devices, often disguised as everyday objects or concealed in clothing and issued alongside silk maps, escape currency, and covert tools. Their tiny size made them difficult for enemy searchers to detect and invaluable for navigation during escape attempts.
*Condition*
Good original condition overall with clear age and service wear. Surface wear, paint loss, and age patina throughout consistent with age. Glazed top intact. Black star rotor present and visually attractive. Untested for magnetic function/accuracy due to age. A strong original example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3062D0_1451238674
