What in the Mills is this?

[Millsman]

I bought this today. Its a Mills No 5 shaped object but I have no idea what it is. It is smaller than a real mills and has the patina of a Mills dating from WW1.

Dimensions :

Body length 82mm ( full size Mills around 88mm)

Diameter at middle 50mm (full size Mills around 58mm)

Gap between shoulders 8mm (full size Mills around 13mm)

Hole in base 26mm diameter (full size Mills around 32mm)

Right hand hole in shoulder is threaded, left one is just drilled

The two halves are linked at the base of the extension on the back and it hinges (see photo)

It looks as though it was also set up for clamshell type opening as well. There is a large slot to the front. The hole in the base is unthreaded. It a quality pice of engineering, not a home made job.

It is not : a baby Mills, a toy, a lighter or a money box.

Any ideas or knowledge please let me know!

Thanks

John

 

[Snufkin]

Another one of these. Probably the same one.

 

[Millsman]

Looks to be the same one Tom. Tiny marks on the body match up. Where did you get the photos?

John

 

[Darrol]

im really sure that ive seen one of these before about 20 years ago at a local antiques fare .hope someone has an answer to what it is and used for .very strange:tinysmile_eyebrow_t

 

[Millsman]

Hi Darrol

Well like the X Files - 'The truth is out there'.

I think Tom has the best chance of a solution as he's obviously seen it in another context.

John

 

[paul the grenade]

Most peculiar!!!
my best guess is its an ornament that should have some other parts that fit the brackets and slots.
Paul the confused.

 

[Millsman]

The odd thing is Paul that with a bit of drilling and long pin it would open up like a clam shell, using the bits on the back. Why is the 'pin' hole threaded on one side? Why is it in the wrong place?

I just can't make this one out.

John

 

[Chris 42 RQ]

Just a shot in the dark here but could it possibly something do to do with the mould making process in the foundry-a bit like the "pattern" used to form the shape ????????
Intriguing to say the least.

 

[Millsman]

Maybe for a Toy Grenade? This has a patina of age, it's not of the plastic age.

Still does not tie up really

John

 

[pointblank0]

Candle mould! You could start a business!

 

[Millsman]

Candle mould! You could start a business!

Great Idea but the inside is smooth. It would have to the other way round.

Luckily in my business I handle Mills grenades daily!

John