Posted 10 years ago
AlisonSTR
(1 item)
I have been given this "artillery shell" from a family member. It stands 60cm tall, has a diameter of 14cm and is very heavy and made of solid brass. Please can you help me identify it - dated 1944.
many Thanks
I did some quick research and here is the only gun that makes sense for your shell:
http://www.navweaps.com/Weapons/WNBR_55-50_mk1.htm
The Japanese had some 5.5 inch Navy guns as well, but yours is not a Japanese shell (no characters).
scott
Is that 14 cm measured at the base? By the markings on the case head, I believe this is a British 17 Pounder Mark II shell. That would be closer to 76.2mm at the mouth of the shell.
The 17 pounder was developed in WWII as an anti-tank cannon:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ordnance_QF_17-pounder
But was later mounted in self propelled guns
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/17pdr_SP_Achilles
The original 17 Pounder shell was of high velocity that worked well as an armor piercing shell, but less well as an high explosive round. The Mark II came out in 1944 and had better high explosive qualities.
but lower velocity
I see the 17 PR markings now. Also the lack of an anchor should have clued me in!
Thanks chris.
scott
Hi the base measures 134mm and the opening at the top 82mm.