Timberhill Gallery has dated this piece to the 1920s.
A silver presentation oar hallmarked Birmingham 1927. Inscribed the 5th Flotilla, Officers Whaler, Vortigern 1927.
The HMS Vortigern was a was built on the Isle of Wight in 1917. She sank on 17th March 1942 off Cromer Norfolk defending a convoy from a U Boat attack.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Vortigern_(D37)
The oar was probably a prize given rowing by the officers.
The oar measures 20.5 cm and is in good condition
Timberhill Gallery has dated this piece to the 1920s.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Timberhill Gallery Profile Page
A Rare Naval Officers Silver Presentation Oar 1927 HMS Vortigern
