RARE – Revolutionary War solid Brass Whistle

This is another neat piece being offered, it is a Revolutionary War whistle. It is made of solid brass, and the overall length of the whistle is about 2 ¼ 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).

Revolutionary War brass whistles were used for military signaling, some being simple designs while others were more ornate, often brass or other materials like bone, wood 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 brass examples rarely show up.

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.