The 1940s were difficult times, with the United Kingdom facing a turning point in its history as the Battle of Britain commenced. London was bombed regularly, and as sirens wailed and Londoners took to underground shelters, Spink not only survived but kept business moving, supplying hundreds of coins to collectors every month. Mr. Marshall was one of these many collectors who was happy to give his custom to Spink during the dramatic years of WWII.