MoD Copper Jugs

Small extracts can be used with acknowledgements to 'Oldcopper.org' website.

Helpful comments are very welcome.

MoD Copper Jugs
For use by the services the administration (now Ministry of Defence) sets standards for many products.

One design that has lasted for many years is the specification for copper jugs used for tea, coffee or hot water. It was launched early during WW1 and still in production in 1953. It was well planned with a stabilizing slight body taper, a reinforced handle with thumb rest that was comfortable to use and a robust lid with easy-grip brass knop and a clean-pouring spout. The interior was tinned. Each jug was 230mm high and marked by the maker, usually in a standard oval cartouche on the base with the year of manufacture as for the earlier ‘C&M’ quality marks. The MoD ‘broad arrow’ symbol was not required.

The jugs had a capacity of 4 pints (or two quarts, half a gallon, Imperial or 2.27 litres.)




Examples of these durable jugs have been found made by Lee and Wilkes, Thomas Bulpitt & Sons, Lawden & Poole Ltd and Alderson & Gyde Ltd, all of Birmingham. There may be others.

Alderson & Gyde, Warstone Lane, then Hall Street, Birmingham, Original and reproduction copper and brassware.

Bulpitt & Sons. Ltd., Camden Street, Winson Green, Birmingham, copper and brasswares, Swan kettles Founded 1868, bought by BSR, dissolved 1989.

Lawden & Poole. Hope Works, Theodore Street then 170-2 New Town Row, Birmingham, pewterers coppersmiths . c1890-1954.

Lee & Wilkes, Priory Works, Brewery Street, New Town Row, Birmingham, previously E V Wilkes, coppersmiths, braziers, brassfounders and metal spinners. 1881-1957.