This is a genuine rare MC40 Miner's Lamp used in the UK Coalfields and dated from 1954.

The MC40 (Manchester Coalfields type 40) model of the Protector Safety Lamp was made specifically for the Manchester collieries.

Protector lamps with the Stainless Steel bonnet, like this one were used underground. The ones with Brass bonnets were 'Presentation Lamps' not used underground and instead were presented to miners, managers etc. for long service etc.

The MC40 was lit in the Lamp Room by passing a high voltage current through the metal loop next to the wick, which in turn would cause a spark and ignite the wick without opening the lamp.

The new owner can of course open the lamp, remove the wick holder, fill with paraffin or lamp oil , re-assemble the wick holder and just light with a match or lighter, then pop the gauzes back into place and screw on the bonnet.

I have restored this lamp with new seals, wick and given it a light polish (the patina and dings from use are however left in place).

If you have any interest in the mining industry, or relatives that worked in the industry then this highly collectable lamp is ideal for display.

Located in Central Hawke's Bay, but can post at buyer's expense.

These genuine lamps rarely come up for sale in New Zealand.

Good luck.