The Boatswain's
Pipe (pronounced "bosun's") is one of the oldest and most distinctive pieces of
nautical equipment. The boatswain's pipe, whistle, or flute, was used in Greece
and Rome to keep the stroke of galley slaves. The pipe was used in the Crusades
to call English cross bowmen on deck for attack. Because its shrill tune could
be heard above most of the activity on board it later was used to signal various
happenings such as knock-off and the boarding of officials. This signaling
device was so essential to the well-being of the ship, that it became a badge of
office and honor in the British and American Navy of the sailing ships. This beautifully detailed solid brass and copper Navy Boatswain's Pipe comes with a quality 39 inch (99 cm) solid brass chain lanyard. The pipe has a traditional anchor design inlaid in copper on both sides. The boatswain's pipe measures 5 inches (12.7 cm) long, and the pipe and chain weigh 1.6 ounces (45 grams), and yes, it really whistles.