1830-1837 British William IV Hand Painted Ebonised Wood Police Constabulary Tip Staff / Truncheon With Weighted Lead Cudgel Cap. Sn 21387 Antiques & Militaria

1830-1837 British William IV Hand Painted Ebonised Wood Police Constabulary Tip Staff / Truncheon With Weighted Lead Cudgel Cap. Sn 21387

The earliest record of the Tipstaff (Warrant Stick) was in the 14th century. The name derives from the early origins of Policing when Warranted Officers would apprehend a criminal with the help if necessary of a tipped staff. The staff would be made of wood or metal and were not only a means of self defence but would also bear symbols of their authority. Modern Police Truncheons originated from these Tipstaffs. This is an original large William IV Tipstaff / Truncheon (William IV was King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and King of Hanover from 26 June 1830 until his death in 1837). The ebonised wood staff measures 18” overall length. The wood has hand painted red bands in the mid section and colourful Royal crown on one side of the cylindrical top section which is period fitted with a heavy lead sheet cudgel cap. The lead has indistinct rubbed gold paint decoration, the only readable feature of which is a part letter ‘W’ no doubt for King William. It has a baluster shaped handle section with turned lines to assist grip. The shaft is fitted with thin leather wrist cord. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 21387

£345.00