Vintage Uranium Glass Lillicrap's Hone Razor Blade Sharpener 1930s

Vintage Lillicrap's Hone razor blade sharpener in green uranium glass.

Lillicrap's Hone was invented by Joseph Richard Lillicrap and was manufactured, in the 1930s and 40s, by Wood Bros Glass Company Ltd at Hoyle Mill in Barnsley. Designed to extend the life of double-edged safety razor blades, it was especially popular during World War 2, when steel was scarce and new blades were a luxury. It was commonly used by soldiers at the front.

Markings include:
'Lillicrap's Hone
Made in England
Patent no. 346057
Rgd no. 756950
France Brevet no.708000
DRGM 1148563
Patented Throughout the World
Australia Pat. no. 864/81
India Pat. no. 17558
S.Africa Pat no. 140/31
New England Pat. no. 66000'

This item glows vibrantly in ultraviolet light, a characteristic of uranium glass. It is in good condition with base and surface wear commensurate with age. There are a couple of nibbles to the top and another underneath the base. No cracks. A few minor surface scratches are present, commensurate with age and use, but nothing significant.

Approximate measurements:

• Height: 3.2cm
• Width/Length: 7.4cm x 5.6cm
• Weight: 117g

NOTE: Any lines of white dots visible in photos are reflections from the lighting setup and not marks on the glass itself.