SMALL TREASURES CAN MAKE LARGE PRICES

THE SAYING that size isn’t everything can apply when it comes to scarce railway items. An example of this was found in the Transport Auctions of London online sale on October 28. Lot 448 was a Great North of Scotland Railway First World War Railway Service lapel badge that surpassed its £240-300 presale estimate to reach £1,200. Made by J.A. Whylie of London, it was numbered ‘X 198’ on the rear.

There were certainly plenty of larger items to choose from – with a strong selection of GWR memorabilia including cast iron and enamel signs plus hand-lamps and wagon plates. Three items relating to GWR 4-6-0 Penrhos Grange appeared in successive lots with the left-hand brass nameplate selling for £4,500, followed by a brass cabside numberplate 6868 reaching £1,500, with a BR smokebox numberplate from the same loco making £300.

The GWR was also well represented in some ‘Selection of...’ lots, including a large quantity of miscellaneous items including a wooden publications rack, carriage window blind, office paperweights, a wall mirror and canvas apron. Estimated at £100-140, this went on to sell for £850. Two Southern Railway enamel signs – Goods Office and Way In – realised £180 each. An LNER posterboard heading blue and white enamel sign worded ‘Great Western Railway’ was sold for £350. BR(W) enamel station totem sign Newton Abbot, sold for £1,200.

Among the posters in this sale, the GWR once again performed well, especially with a 1930s double-royal example promoting Cornwall that raised £2,400. The next TAL auction is scheduled for 24 February 2024. W: