Harold joined the University Officer Training Corps in February 1915, was gazetted to the 20th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers in May the same year and later transferred to the Royal Flying Corps to server as an observer. While out on a photographic reconnaissance flight his plane, a Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8 reconnaissance aircraft, crashed and caught fire after it was shot down by Manfred von Richthofen (also known as The Red Barron) on 18th June 1917. His mission was the 53rd shot down by Richthofen. He left effects worth £7044 9s 7d to his father, Eveleen Mary Barlow and Frank Carver.

Above is the brief history of Harold Barlow. The item for sale is the Masonic Ball pendant/fob that belonged to Harold Barlow. It tells us a little more about the man. When he got this pendant in 1912 he was 21 years old and clearly a cricket lover! The engravings on the gilded silver pyramids of this ball are not typical of masonic jewellery – they are indeed a cricket bat, ball and two sets of wickets. The pendant is also engraved on the 9kt gold surface with “H. C. B. Aug 29/12”. This piece, along with two others were sold to us by the descendants of Carver’s brother, to whom the inheritance went after their father’s death.

Here is your opportunity to own a piece of true and very personal history.

Condition wise this piece doesn’t look like it has been worn since just prior to the WW1 period. It is in very good condition for a piece that is at least 113 years old. Check the photos to see the condition yourself.

Weight: 8.0 grams
Materials: Clasps and outer shell 9kt gold, Internal structure 850 Silver with gold wash
Dimensions: Closed: ball diameter 17mm, fall 21mm. Open: length 45mm, width 33mm