NEWS FEED
Rare items will ring bells at Crewkerne auction
Two extremely rare items, an early bicycle and a police telephone box, are to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne.
The bike dates from 1902, and was made by Imperial Rover in Coventry. It was one of a few shaft driven experimental bikes that were made by the firm and it was ridden by Mr Walter Driver, an employee of Imperial Rover and founder of Driver’s Toy Shop.
Lawrences Auctioneer Simon Jones said, “This is an historically important bicycle that would make a tremendous addition to a collection or museum. It has survived in remarkably good condition for its age and comes with an informative metal plaque which details information about it.” It is expected to make £1,500 to £2,000 at auction.
The cast iron police telephone box is a very scarce item made for the Metropolitan Police, and still contains its original telephone. It was for use by the public should they need to make a telephone call in an emergency. It has illuminated panels on the front and sides and a light on the top. It was probably made in the 1920s or 1930s and was purchased by the vendor around 20 years ago.
Lawrences’ Auctioneer Simon Jones, “This is a rare piece of telephone history and would make a great acquisition for a collector or museum. We believe there are only two left in existence in London, so this is a most unusual find.” It has an estimate of £2,000–£3,000.
