USCE Compass by Taylor Value Guide

The 1918 USCE Compass by Taylor is a significant piece of World War I history, manufactured by the Taylor Instrument Companies of Rochester, New York. Specifically designed for the U.S. Corps of Engineers, these brass-cased instruments were vital for field navigation and surveying during the Great War.

What affects the value of USCE Compass by Taylor?

• The clarity and condition of the glass crystal and the internal compass dial.
• The presence of the original patina on the brass case versus evidence of over-polishing.
• The functionality of the needle and the mechanical integrity of the flip-top hinge.
• Historical provenance or the inclusion of an original period-correct leather carrying pouch.

How to Identify USCE Compass by Taylor?

• Look for the 'USCE' engraving on the brass case, which stands for U.S. Corps of Engineers.
• Verify the manufacturer mark 'Taylor' and the production date '1918' on the dial or case.
• Check for the characteristic flip-top brass lid and the original needle locking mechanism.
• Inspect the dial for the distinct early 20th-century typography used by Taylor Instrument Companies.

History of USCE Compass by Taylor

During World War I, Taylor Instrument Companies, based in Rochester, New York, was a major supplier of instruments to the U.S. military. This specific compass model, marked 'USCE' for U.S. Corps of Engineers, was essential for navigation and surveying by American troops. Its robust brass construction and functional design made it a reliable tool in the field.