I found this insulator in the same batch of insulators as the olive signal (Collector's Albums) and the fizzy beehive (Hunts & Finds). I am quite certain that the damage did not occur in my grandfather's possession, as it would not have been moved much since the early 70s. Besides, there was soot within this damage, which says to me that this may have occurred early in its life. I've seen base chipping before, but not to this extent. Even the inner skirt is entirely chipped around its circumference. Embossing: Hemingray / No 40 // Patented / May 2 1893. Does anyone have an idea as to how this was caused?