LITTLE GEMS LIT UP COLLECTORS’ FACES AT GW’S TIMED AUCTION
Railwayana gems to pique any collector’s interest – David scours the classifieds so you don’t have to...
![](images/img_36-1.jpg)
GW RAILWAYANA Auction’s Timed Auction (December 16 ‐January 7) proved to be their best yet of this type of event that generally features some cheaper collectables.
Lots of two-figure prices were paid to make collectors happy, plus some notable three-figure sums too – some of which wouldn’t look out of place in their main sales.
For example, in the station lamps category, a set of four examples including three gaslit models and another converted to electric, sold together for £800. Included in this lot was an unusual type with downward, elongated cowling, complete with globe. A GWR Suggs-type gas lamp with ‘Mexican hat’ style shade in great condition went for £550.
Among the enamel signs there was a BR(S) enamel station totem sign – in light green – for Wandsworth Common that showed some areas of restoration and a few chips. It sold for a hammer price of £480. Also included was a Southern Railway enamel station target, Honor Oak, that realised £340.
![](images/img_36-3.jpg)
![](images/img_36-2.jpg)
A reproduction Swanage target on a wooden backboard raised £120.
The areas catering for signalling enthusiasts offered a broad choice of items, including a BR(W) black and white ‘Penguin’ ‐style block instrument that reached £240. The same was paid for a Southern Railway three-position block instrument. A Midland Railway pegging block instrument, stamped MRCo several times, achieved £220. Eight Bakelite repeaters sold for a total of £240.
Steam locomotive whistles featured in this sale included an LMS Stanier hooter complete with upright fitting, as fixed to an Ivatt Class 2 that sold at £120, while a further example as fitted to various locomotives including 'Black Fives', went for £100. A GWR small locomotive whistle mounted upright on a plaque with an engraved description sold for £110. The same was paid for a Midland Railway whistle on a plaque.
GWRA’s main auctions in 2024 are scheduled to take place on March 16/17, July 20/21 and November 16/17.