U.S. Navy Foredeck/Anchor Bell
Post-1950s era

Based on the design and the “US” designation, we date the bell to post 1950’s era. The original inverted vertical “J” bracket allows them only to be mounted on a pedestal or deck; hence they are referred to as anchor or foredeck bell. The design of the bell is indicative of bells of 1950s or later. This bell has most of its original parts including the mounting shoe for the J bracket which we rarely see.
Dimensions:
DIMENSIONS BELL:
Diameter at crown 5″
Diameter at mouth 10″
Height to crown 6 3/4″
Height overall 17″
WOOD STAND: 16 1/2″ L x 10 1/2″ W x 1″ T
Weight: 31 pounds
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
The bell appears to have been manufactured by M Loeffler as is the marking on top of the bell. It’s very unusual to have a marking on these bells indicating where or who made them.
NAVY FORMULA BELL METAL: The tone of an authentic Navy bell, made using a special “bell metal” formula
is not easily forgotten. It has a strong and long resonance and vibration that rings sharp and clear with a distinctive sound. This is due to the specially formulated bronze alloy unique to Navy bells.
b



