From the decorated truncheon section of the collection, ( also containing several others which relate to former independent Welsh Railway companies police forces), is this Victorian / 19th century, rare example to the former Rhymney Railway Company.

Quite heavy,, measuring 18 inches in length. The decoration is all hand painted, and shows the skill of the 'artist'.

The reason for them being decorated, was that in addition to being a weapon of defence, the decoration was a 'pictorial sign' so to speak, displaying the holder’s authority....in this case on behalf of the Railway Company.

At the top of the truncheon is the number '18'. This is likely to be the Constables collar number, and suggests a police force having at least 18 men.

A Bill for the Rhymney Railway went before Parliament during the 1854 session and received Royal assent on the 24th July 1854 - as the 'Rhymney Railway Act 1854'.

THE ROSS MATHER POLICE MEMORABILIA OF WALES COLLECTION