A Historic Find in Wedderburn!
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Mark recently shared with us his favourite discovery while prospecting in Wedderburn—a World War trench lighter!
"It was buried about 20cm deep, and I uncovered it using my GPX 6000 with a 9-inch Coiltek coil. At first, I thought I’d struck gold, but as I dug deeper, I was amazed to see the lighter appear.
Not far from there, I also found a Rising Sun badge, along with another badge designed to fit in the centre of a soldier's hat."
About the Trench Lighter:
Trench lighters were commonly used during World War I and were designed to perform reliably in the harsh conditions of trench warfare. Their robust construction was intended to withstand the muddy and wet environments of the trenches, making them essential for lighting cigarettes, candles, and other necessities.
About the Rising Sun Badge:
The Rising Sun badge is a significant symbol in Australian military history. Introduced in 1902, it has been worn by Australian soldiers in various conflicts, including World War I and II. The badge features a rising sun with multiple rays, representing Australia's emergence as a powerful military force. The badge that fits into the centre of a soldier's hat further reflects the attention to detail and pride in military uniforms of the time.
It’s incredible to think of the history still hidden beneath our feet. You never know what you might uncover next!