Revolutionary War British Soldier’s Pewter Whistle

This is another neat piece being offered, it is a Revolutionary War whistle. It is made of pewter, and the overall size of the whistle is 2 ½ x ¾” wide.  Whistles were often used by both officers and NCOs. They were easy to carry and could direct men without having to depend on other signals. There is an example in the Revolutionary War Guilford Courthouse Museum (see pictures). The example offered here is a rare British Military Whistle, ca. 1750 – 1780.

Revolutionary War whistles were used for military signaling, some being simple designs while others were more ornate, often pewter or other materials like bone, brass, wood or horn with chains or lanyards for quick access; they served as crucial communication tools, though less common than bugles for large formations, with surviving examples found in museums and collections.

This is truly a nice piece, and it actually still works. The small end piece allowed for a string or thin cord or leather to be tied to it to wear around the neck. There are whistle examples in "Collector's Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution", by Newmann and Kravic (see pictures). It does make a very nice personal item, and English examples rarely show up, and this one is in nice condition, showing that it was well used.

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding this year, there is a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts are in demand, which only adds to their scarcity and price. I am seeing a substantial increase in purchases. This one comes in the acrylic display case pictured.