Historical information
Trench art letter opener cut into the shape of a scimitar from a section of a shell case. The handle for the letter opener is made from a discharged British or Australian MK VII .303 calibre rimmed cartridge. The blade of the letter opener is attached to the handle via a bullet which has been sliced through the middle
HMAS Uralba was an auxiliary minefield tender and armament stores carrier operated by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) during World War II. She was launched in 1942 by Ernest Wright, Tuncurry, New South Wales as Uralba for the North Coast Steam Navigation Company. Requisitioned by the RAN while under construction on 13 July 1942 and commissioned on 22 November 1942. After being returned to her owners and being sold and used for a number of purposes she was sunk on 4 November 1971 to create an artificial reef off Carrum Creek, in Port Phillip Bay.
Physical description
Stainless steel blade with handle made from 303 round/cartridge
Inscriptions & markings
HMAS Uralba inscribed on blade
Subjects
References
- Photograph of HMAS Uralba Black and white photograph - Port view of the wooden hulled Uralba tied to Station Pier, Melbourne, Vic. 1945.
