All Thomson Elite seatposts are the same - but this one is way newer than 96.... Bought it in 2007. AFAIK they came out in 96 and haven't changed since, so you could get away with it....
It's very low mileage. No pic right now.
Price on Chain Reaction is £63 for a new one plus postage....
Will let it go for £40 plus postage which I think will be £8.