Antique English Brass “The Metropolitan“ Whistle by J Hudson and Co

This antique English brass whistle is a fascinating bit of social history. Its caption, “The Metropolitan“, says it all: one of the very first police whistles ever created for London’s Metropolitan police.

Prior to its invention, police had to rely on rattles, which were cumbersome and not very effective especially when pursuing London’s hardened criminals. Joseph Hudson then established Hudson and Co. at Barr Street, Birmingham and "The Metropolitan", their first and most famous design, was patented in 1844.

A lovely curio, still eminently wearable as a necklace or used as intended.
Excellent antique condition; slight rubbing to the logo but hallmarks are still discernible; the J from J Hudson and Co has been worn off with time. 

Measurements from top of bale to base: 8 cm length.
Whistle diameter just under 2 cm.