File:Cast copper alloy pipe (smoking) (FindID 509792).jpg

English: Complete cast copper alloy pipe dating from the 19th century. David Higgins (Clay Pipe Specialist, Merseyside) suggests that this is an Asian pipe, even though it is difficult to find close parallels for it. It probably is not from as far away as China, Japan or India, but probably the Near East. Dating of these pipes proves difficult because of the lack of good reference works or closely dated examples. However, Mr Higgins doubts that a pipe like this would have found its way to this country much before the 19th century, and this is why he suspects this is the likely date. It is a very unusual find, and Mr Higgins suggests that perhaps it was brought back by a soldier or sailor serving in the east. It is certainly an interesting find and, even with a loose provenance/date, should make a useful reference point for any similar finds.