SOLD
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This item SOLD at 2026 Jan 31 @ 13:49UTC-08:00 : PST/AKDT
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Preview: January 30th (10am - 5pm)
Pick ups: Feb 1st - Feb 3rd (10am - 5pm)
Preview and Pick up location: 27294 Fraser Hwy, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3P8
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Removed from HMCS Drumheller - Personal Property of Captain G.H. Griffiths, O.B.E., RCN - COA Included
This impressive solid brass Ship' Engine Order Telegraph, measuring approximately 45 inches tall by 15 inches wide, is a rare and historically significant naval artifact directly connected to the Royal Canadian Navy's service in the Battle of the Atlantic. Engine order telegraphs were essential command instruments aboard wartime vessels, used to relay propulsion commands between the bridge and the engine room with absolute clarity during convoy escort operations, evasive maneuvers, and combat conditions.
This example carries exceptional provenance: it was removed from the Flower class corvette HMCS Drumheller and belonged personally to her commanding officer, Captain George Humphrey Griffiths, O.B.E., RCN. Griffiths was one of the RCN's most experienced wartime officers, known for his leadership during North Atlantic convoy duty and for his decorated service, including an O.B.E. and a Mention in Despatches for distinguished conduct. His command of HMCS Drumheller placed him at the center of some of the most dangerous escort operations of WWII.
Constructed entirely of heavy marine-grade brass, the telegraph features dual indicator faces, mechanical linkage hardware, and the classic command positions used aboard Allied naval vessels of the era. Both indicator screens show period-consistent cracking, a condition that reflects decades of operational use and adds authenticity without diminishing the instrument's display presence. The patina, wear patterns, and mechanical components all present as genuine and untouched, offering collectors a true piece of working naval history.
Engine order telegraphs from Canadian corvettes are exceptionally scarce, as most were scrapped or lost following wartime service. An example with named officer provenance, removed directly from a known escort ship, is rarer still. The inclusion of a Certificate of Authenticity confirming its removal from HMCS Drumheller and its ownership by Captain G.H. Griffiths elevates this piece to museum worthy status.
This is a standout artifact for collectors of naval history, Canadian military heritage, WWII maritime equipment, or those seeking a commanding display piece with unquestionable provenance. Its scale, craftsmanship, and direct connection to a decorated RCN captain make it one of the most desirable telegraphs to appear on the market.
Auction Location:
27294 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, British Columbia, V4W 3P8, Canada
Previewing Details:
January 30th (10am - 5pm) in-person and video calls.
Previewing Address: 27294 Fraser Hwy, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3P8
Video calls & Facetime previews are available as well via appointment only. To book an appointment please email us at auction@directliquidation.ca with a time between 10am-5pm PDT.
International Shipping is available through 3rd party. See shipping details.
Items must be paid in full on the day of the sale.
Preview: January 30th (10am - 5pm)
Pick ups: Feb 1st - 3rd (10am - 5pm)
Preview and Pick up location: 27294 Fraser Hwy, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3P8
NOTE: ITEMS NOT PICKED UP BY FEBRUARY 3RD WILL BECOME THE PROPERTY OF DIRECT LIQUIDATION, AND NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED UNLESS ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE WITH US.
Applicable taxes GST 5% PST 7%
Please make sure to include your PST number if you have one.
Taxes:
| Tax | Rate | Desc. |
| GST |
5% |
GST |
| BPST |
7% |
BC PST |
| NFLD |
5% |
NewFoundland |
| NB |
5% |
New Brunswick |
| NS |
5% |
Nova Scotia |
| PEI |
5% |
Prince Edward Island |
| ON |
5% |
Ontario |
| AB |
5% |
Alberta |
| MB |
5% |
Manitoba |
| NWT |
5% |
Northwest Territories |
| NT |
5% |
Nunavut |
| QC |
5% |
Quebec |
| SK |
5% |
Saskatchewan |
| YK |
5% |
Yukon |
Buyer's Premiums:
| From (Incl.) | To (Excl.) | Premium |
| 0.00 |
Infinite |
18% |
Additional Fees:
Shipping Details:
All shipping operations will be managed through The UPS Store in Burnaby, located at:
4111 Hastings Street
Burnaby, BC
Contact Information:
Steve or Brian
Phone: 604.205.5888
Email: store325@theupsstore.ca
Should you have any questions or require assistance with shipping, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Steve or Brian directly at the contact number above.
Payment Details:
If your picking your items up, you can save 2% by paying cash or debit, NO discount for E-Transfer! All items not paid for within 48 hours of the conclusion of the auction, will be charged on your card. If items are being shipped, your card will be charged twice. Once for your items and again when shipping has been calculated.
* 18% Buyer Premium will be applied on purchases.
* Plus Applicable Taxes
* 16% if paying Debit or Cash
* If paying by E-Transfer, please send to: Accounts@Directliquidation.ca
Password: canada
Accepted Payment Methods:
- VISA
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