Original WW2 RAF “Bathtub” Morse key, with the main operating key marked Ref. No. 10A/7790 and the two smaller adjustment knobs marked Ref. No. 10A/7789. This distinctive aircraft Morse key is associated with RAF wireless equipment and is commonly linked with wartime bomber aircraft including the Lancaster and Halifax.

The key features the recognisable rounded black “bathtub” style body, large central operating key, twin adjustment knobs and internal contact mechanism. The casing opens to reveal the internal metal contact assembly, wiring loop and original fittings, making it a very displayable and interesting piece of wartime RAF communications equipment.

A strong original item for collectors of WW2 RAF aviation, Bomber Command, Lancaster, Halifax, aircraft radio equipment and wireless telegraphy equipment. Pieces of this type are especially appealing due to their direct connection with aircraft communication and Morse code use during the war.

Condition is good overall for age and type, with honest service wear, surface marks, age-related dirt and some rubbing to the black finish. There is a visible chip/loss to the casing edge, as shown in the photographs, but the item remains complete-looking, well presented and retains strong display appeal. The mechanism works as expected, although sadly I don’t have an actual bomber aircraft to test it in.

The top cover opens and closes cleanly, the closing mechanism works well, and the knobs turn freely with no stiffness. The inside has been marked with “GT”, possibly an ownership or user-applied marking. These keys were fitted as part of RAF aircraft wireless equipment, though surviving examples are often encountered loose today, having been removed from aircraft or retained after service. It is sometimes said that aircrew or wireless operators kept these keys with their personal kit, although this example is offered simply as an original RAF aircraft Morse key rather than with any specific crew provenance. The only other point to note is that the rubber/resin insulating compound around the internal contact area is perishing, as photographed.