British Mills Bomb Grenade – River Ancre Battlefield Relic (Somme 1916)
A nice and increasingly sought-after battlefield recovery: a British Mills bomb grenade in near semi-relic condition. This example is empty and completely inert, consisting of the outer casing only, with all internal components absent.
Condition
The metal body shows no perforations and remains structurally sound, though it is rusted and pitted in places (not heavily). Traces of original black paintwork remain visible, along with faint markings on the side. The grenade is missing its pin and lever, but the casing remains solid and well-presented.
It has been carefully cleaned and, despite its age and battlefield recovery, remains in very good display condition. It would also be suitable for restoration if desired. Overall, it is an attractive and stable piece, ideal for any collection or display.
Provenance
Recovered from the River Ancre at Beaumont-Hamel on the Somme battlefield, the site associated with the major offensive actions of 1 July 1916 and subsequent fighting in the area.
This location formed part of the wider British Somme offensive, including actions involving the Newfoundland Regiment, whose attack on 1 July was repulsed with heavy casualties. The sector remained in German hands until November 1916.
Historical Context
The Capture of Beaumont-Hamel occurred during the Battle of the Somme (1 July – 18 November 1916), specifically within the Battle of the Ancre (13–18 November 1916). After the failed initial assault on 1 July, the area remained strongly held by German forces.
In November, British forces launched a renewed offensive. On 13 November, in thick fog, the 51st (Highland) Division successfully outflanked Beaumont-Hamel and forced the German garrison to surrender, marking the final capture of the position.
Additional Information
Supplied with 2 x A5 laminated information cards.
British Mills Bomb Grenade – River Ancre Battlefield Relic (Somme 1916)
A nice and increasingly sought-after battlefield recovery: a British Mills bomb grenade in near semi-relic condition. This example is empty and completely inert, consisting of the outer casing only, with all internal components absent.
Condition
The metal body shows no perforations and remains structurally sound, though it is rusted and pitted in places (not heavily). Traces of original black paintwork remain visible, along with faint markings on the side. The grenade is missing its pin and lever, but the casing remains solid and well-presented.
It has been carefully cleaned and, despite its age and battlefield recovery, remains in very good display condition. It would also be suitable for restoration if desired. Overall, it is an attractive and stable piece, ideal for any collection or display.
Provenance
Recovered from the River Ancre at Beaumont-Hamel on the Somme battlefield, the site associated with the major offensive actions of 1 July 1916 and subsequent fighting in the area.
This location formed part of the wider British Somme offensive, including actions involving the Newfoundland Regiment, whose attack on 1 July was repulsed with heavy casualties. The sector remained in German hands until November 1916.
Historical Context
The Capture of Beaumont-Hamel occurred during the Battle of the Somme (1 July – 18 November 1916), specifically within the Battle of the Ancre (13–18 November 1916). After the failed initial assault on 1 July, the area remained strongly held by German forces.
In November, British forces launched a renewed offensive. On 13 November, in thick fog, the 51st (Highland) Division successfully outflanked Beaumont-Hamel and forced the German garrison to surrender, marking the final capture of the position.
Additional Information
Supplied with 2 x A5 laminated information cards.
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