Press Office
Mallard joins hallmark of fame
The world's largest railway museum has welcomed a very special miniature of its most famous exhibit.
A unique sterling silver '0' gauge version of Mallard, the fastest ever steam locomotive, was presented to the National Railway Museum on 3 July 2001- the 63rd anniversary of its world record breaking run.
The model, thought to be worth around £15,000, was commissioned by the Sheffield Assay Office to commemorate the NRM's Silver Jubilee, and bears the town's distinctive Tudor Rose, plus the commemorative Millennium hallmark.
It was handmade by Sheffield-based British Silverware designer Graham Rich, and took more than 200 hours to complete. An expert in the creation of intricate silver models, Graham's work has also included prestigious pieces such as the Rugby League Challenge Cup.
Sir Nigel Gresley's world-beating A4 Class locomotive has been painstakingly recreated in sterling silver, with impressive 9ct gold nameplates and whistle. Even the coal in the tender is made from specially oxidised black silver to give a more realistic effect.
The model came under close scrutiny during the hand-over ceremony at the Museum on 3 July, when more than a dozen former Mallard drivers, fireman and engineers gathered to help celebrate the occasion.
Among the guests was Doncaster freight train driver Cliff Bray, grandson of the late Tommy Bray, who was the fireman for Mallard's legendary 1938 record run between Peterborough and Grantham.
Freight train driver Cliff Bray proudly holds the model of Mallard.
"We were delighted to commission this very special piece to mark the National Railway Museum's Silver Jubilee. The City of Sheffield has been renowned for the quality of its silverware for hundreds of years and now generations more visitors to the NRM will have the opportunity to admire the craftsmanship this city has to offer,"
said Assay Master Ashley Carson.
Assay Master Ashley Carson (left) and the model's designer Graham Rich
Andrew Scott, Head of the NRM, added:
"The wonderful streamlined shape of Mallard is probably one of the most recognisable images of modern times and has thrilled millions of visitors to the Museum since we opened in 1975.
"I can think of no more fitting way to mark this milestone in our history than with this beautiful and completely unique representation of a locomotive that has become the flagship of our collection."
July 3, 2001