Large Brass Three Chime Locomotive Railroad Train Traction Engine Steam Whistle

Description

Very Rare Find!  This is an antique brass 5 inch diameter 3 chime steam locomotive or steam traction engine steam whistle.  It is just over 18 inches tall overall and is complete with a built in valve.  The inlet is 1 1/4 inches.  The whistle is indeed a full 5 inches in diameter as the circumference is just under 16 1/2 inches.  The total weight is just over 25 pounds.  Though it is unmarked that I can see, the bell and lever strongly resemble a Crosby, but the bowl is not a Crosby bowl.  Someone has written in elegant cursive handwriting, most likely in chalk, what appears to say "Bell 5/8 larger in circumference" on the side for some reason.  This could easily be polished off if the new owner desires.  The valve inside is a newer machined one and seems to be tight and springs back properly when the lever is pulled back and forth.  However, I have not tested this one on steam or air.  You are buying it as-is, no guarantees.  However, you may return it within 14 days if unhappy with it, but you will be responsible for shipping costs incurred by me as well as return shipping.
Please look closely at the photos as this is exactly what you will be buying.  I do see a small hole in the side of the bell that has been drilled above the shortest chime.  This was done occasionally to whistles to allow any condensation or water to escape from the top of the bell if it ever entered that area for some reason.  As long as the top plate is on the bell, this is generally unnecessary.  It would be great for display in a railroadiana or maritime collection as a museum piece, or to possibly use on a full size steam locomotive, factory, sawmill boiler, ship, tugboat, riverboat paddle wheeler, river boat, steamship, steamboat, steam traction engine or steam tractor, amusement park train, etc.
No reserve, very low starting bid, and only for shipping and insurance in the USA.  Good luck bidders!