Original French WWI FT-17 Renault Tank Inkwell Made as Renault Merchandising Advertising Piece - Dated 1919

Original Item. Only One Available. Renault S.A., commonly referred to as Groupe Renault is a French multinational corporation and automobile manufacturer established in 1899. During World War I, the company branched out into ammunition and military vehicles such as the revolutionary Renault FT tank. The company's military designs were so successful that Louis was awarded the Legion of Honour for his company's contributions.

This is an outstanding piece that will fit well into any WWI collection or as a display on your desk at work. This small model of an FT-17 Renault light tank appears to have been manufactured as a merchandising or advertising piece for “Renault Constructeur” as is embossed on both sides of the treads. This piece is meant as an inkwell, and the turret does lift up for an inkwell to be placed inside.

The piece measures roughly 6 ¼ x 2 ⅜ x 2 ⅞” and is in great shape with a lovely patina. The side of the tank is marked 3498, likely the tank number. The bottom of the tank is marked:

G.B.W. © 1919.
221

The 221 is likely a serial number. This is a tremendous piece, ready for further research and display!