Rare Boer War Celluloid Letter Opener Depicting a Boer Soldier Holding a Flag – Possibly a member of The Thornycroft Mounted Infantry – “Angels on Horseback” c1900

Here on offer is a rare example rare Boer War celluloid letter opener depicting a Boer soldier holding a flag. He was possibly a member of The Thornycroft Mounted Infantry – “Angels on Horseback”. Made in Germany, circa 1900.

The detail on this piece is impressive, such as his facial features with a mustache, the sword and even the fingers on his hands.

What is interesting about this example is the fact it has the letters “A.H.” impressed into the front of his waist belt. Now some researching has identified this as possibly relating to the nickname of the renowned Boer unit, The Thornycroft Mounted Infantry, being the “Angels on Horseback”.

I found that a book had been written about this Boer War patriotic unit, titled:
ANGELS ON HORSEBACK, THE THORNYCROFT MOUNTED INFANTRY

Written by Brig-Gen. F.P. Crozier CB CMG DSO, Johnathan Cape Press, 1932.

On the lower platform area at the back base just below his feet is the text, "D.R.P. No. 8663". This relates to a German "Deutsche Reich Patent number 8663, that is a very early number dating back to the early 1900’s.

This letter opener is in great condition but does have a tiny chip to the tip of the solid blade and the very top of the flag pole possibly had a small spike tip, which is now missing?

These patriotic souvenirs made during the Boer War and I believe suppliers at the time, would sell such items to raise funds for the military wounded, on both sides of the war.

It measures 9” (22.7cm) long, end to end and weighs 15g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

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Code: 51845