This achromatic telescope has a leather-covered barrel with an inset panel showing the flags and pennants of the signal code for 1853-59. The single draw tube and the other fittings, which include a pivoted eyepiece cover and a sliding sunshade, are made of silvered-brass.

Telescopes like this were commonly used in the 19th century for making general observations from the deck of a ship, including reading signals from other ships.

An inscription on the draw tube records that it was made by 'COX, / Devonport / Optician to the / R.W.Y.C.'. The RWYC is the Royal Western Yacht Club, which was founded in 1827. In addition, the letters 'J B' are engraved on the draw tube with a crest of a lion inside a garter. This refers to the telescopes original owner, Captain John Burgess RN, who retired from the Royal Navy in 1873.