A soundbox for spies

[snallast]

Here's something you don't run across everyday...

An original WWII Second World War MI9 issued hidden ' Swinger ' type compass, within a gramophone needle. The swinger compass (to be used in water) fits discreetly into a channel to the rear of the Swiss-made gramophone needle. Supplied within its original lined case. Rare item.

From the collection of the late Arthur Muggeridge - Arthur T. Muggeridge, born 18th December 1919 - it’s thought he spent most of WW2 in the Royal Artillery and was at Dunkirk in 1940 during the evacuations and was minorly injured by Luftwaffe bombing whilst on one of the navy ships. He later took part in a special raid called Operation Claymore 4th March 1941 in Norway where he was injured once again in the leg by shrapnel. Later again, he was injured a third time when a field artillery gun misfired causing deafness which is believed to have resulted in him being discharged from the military. In his later life he collected mainly military items and particularly spy / clandestine objects. Whilst visiting Devon in the 1960's he became acquainted with Charles Frazer Smith who had worked for MI6 & MI9 in the war, and designed spy items for the SOE and others. Arthur died aged 91 after a short illness on 27th Feb 2010. His amassed collection is now being offered for sale by his family.

https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auct ... b500d365ab

[fran604g]

Fascinating, thank you for sharing this interesting piece of history.

Best,
Fran

[Jerry B.]

Yes, very interesting. Thanks for the thread.

Jerry B.