WW2 RAF Metal Identification Lamp Morse Key No.2 Mark III 5C/372

This is an early WW2 RAF Metal Identification Lamp Morse Key No.2 Mark III 5C/372 used in iconic aircraft such as the Mk 1A Spitfire, Avro Anson, Bristol Blenheim and Hurricane.

Approximate Size: 

• Base Diameter: 8.5 cm
• Maximum height: 7 cm

The black painted metal case is in pretty good condition, with some surface scratches and blemishes, and with a small chip in the bakelite base.  Made from metal, manufacturing proved too slow and labour intensive so later versions were made totally from bakelite.

During periods of radio silence, this little gizmo enabled morse communication between other friendly aircraft and the ground by flashing the top and bottom lights on the aircraft. 

Labelled:

Ref. No. 5C/372 (RAF stores reference 5C = Electrical Aircraft )

AM and crown

Switchbox Identification No.2 Mark III

In a Spitfire the device was placed on the right hand (starboard) side of the pilot, as indicated by the orange arrow in the appended image of a Spitfire cockpit.

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