Plymouth - Dock Watch Tipstaff
A George III Dock Watch Tipstaff for Plymouth, dated 1796
Maker unknown, with knop finial, the cylindrical shaft engraved 'IIIGR Plymouth Dock Watch 1796', with turned ebony handle. Length 40cm, upon an associated carved wooden stand
This tipstaff dates to a period of intense maritime chaos and wartime mobilization at Plymouth Docks during the French Revolutionary Wars. As a primary Royal Navy base, the port was overwhelmed by rapid ship refits and troop deployments, creating a frantic environment that strained local law enforcement. This tipstaff would have been carried by a court officer or constable tasked with policing the rampant black-market trade and violent crime generated by the crowded harbour. 1796 saw the catastrophic explosion of HMS Amphion, killing over 200 people, which was later blamed on a dockyard ring stealing naval gunpowder for illicit sale; and a bloody waterfront gun battle at Torpoint between liquour smugglers and the customs cutter Viper. Plymouth Dock was the pre-1824 name for Devonport.
Postage: Not Postable
Condition Report:
There are typical scuffs / dents / scratches and marks. Not all stamped marks are mentioned in the cataloguing, and some may be indistinct / rubbed.
Visually tarnished to the metal work.
The associated stand is scuffed and dented.
Some black marks to the centre
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any specific questions.
Condition reports are offered as a guide only and we highly recommend inspecting any lot to satisfy yourself as to its condition and finish.
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
A George III Dock Watch Tipstaff for Plymouth, dated 1796
Maker unknown, with knop finial, the cylindrical shaft engraved 'IIIGR Plymouth Dock Watch 1796', with turned ebony handle. Length 40cm, upon an associated carved wooden stand
This tipstaff dates to a period of intense maritime chaos and wartime mobilization at Plymouth Docks during the French Revolutionary Wars. As a primary Royal Navy base, the port was overwhelmed by rapid ship refits and troop deployments, creating a frantic environment that strained local law enforcement. This tipstaff would have been carried by a court officer or constable tasked with policing the rampant black-market trade and violent crime generated by the crowded harbour. 1796 saw the catastrophic explosion of HMS Amphion, killing over 200 people, which was later blamed on a dockyard ring stealing naval gunpowder for illicit sale; and a bloody waterfront gun battle at Torpoint between liquour smugglers and the customs cutter Viper. Plymouth Dock was the pre-1824 name for Devonport.
Postage: Not Postable
Condition Report:
There are typical scuffs / dents / scratches and marks. Not all stamped marks are mentioned in the cataloguing, and some may be indistinct / rubbed.
Visually tarnished to the metal work.
The associated stand is scuffed and dented.
Some black marks to the centre
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any specific questions.
Condition reports are offered as a guide only and we highly recommend inspecting any lot to satisfy yourself as to its condition and finish.
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
