Code: 10453
RAF Spitfire Coffman engine starter cartridge tin, dated 1940.
This tin, size 6 x 5 x 3", held 20 starter cartridges. These look similar to 12 bore shot gun cartridges, but just held a powder charge which when fired turned the aircraft engine over and 'bump' started it. The cartridges were loaded into a cylinder unit (Coffman starter) which could be operated and fired from the pilots cockpit. The last photo shows a Coffman starter in situ (in French, barillet), fitted to the Merlin engine of a Mk2 Spitfire.
The tin is now empty, but has two excellent condition paper labels still attached with that all important Battle of Britain 1940 date.
A very rare item.
