Deactivated Extremely Rare WW1 Lee Speed Rifle Issued to P&O

This is an extremely rare WW1 procured Lee Speed MLE (Magazine Lee Enfield) MkII by BSA with its original matching bolt and dust cover. The rifle retains both front and rear volley and diopeter sights, magazine with chain and an extremely scarce Naval sling swivel hoop, believed to be only used on board ships for tethering or stowage.

Of particular interest in the P&O stamp on the top of the reveiver. With the threat of WW1 looming, the British Government had set about accounting for all commercial sea-going vessels with a view to pressing them into Naval service. Within weeks of war being declared on Germany, the Government had commandeered around half of the available fleet of P&O ships. Those ships equipped for Royal Naval use were outfitted with a mix of military issued equipment and requisitioned commercial hardware, this rifle being one such piece which would have originally been destined for the commercial market or private purchase.

You are unlikely to see another and in such amazing condition.

**PRICE TO BE CONFIRMED SHORTLY**