*British, Dated 1945, QF 17-Pounder (76.2mm) Mk II Brass Cartridge Case, RLB Birtley*
An excellent and highly displayable original Second World War British QF 17-Pounder brass cartridge case, dated 1945 and produced at the renowned Birtley Royal Ordnance facility. This is a classic late-war example of one of Britain’s most important anti-tank gun systems, retaining clear base markings and an attractive aged patina.
This is a full-size Mk II brass case for the Ordnance QF 17-Pounder (76.2mm), the principal British heavy anti-tank gun of the later war years, famously used in towed form as well as mounted in vehicles such as the Sherman Firefly and Archer tank destroyer. Its association with Allied armoured success in Northwest Europe makes these cases particularly desirable to collectors.
The base is clearly stamped:
“17 PR” – 17-Pounder designation
“Mk 2” – cartridge case mark
“LOT 1524” – production batch
“RLB” – Royal Ordnance / Royal Laboratory, Birtley (a highly regarded wartime manufacturer)
“CR” – brass/copper-alloy case designation
“1945” – year of manufacture
Broad Arrow with accompanying number – War Department ownership and inspection mark
Approx. Measurements – Height: 58.4 cm. Base diameter: 13.4 cm.
History Note:
Introduced in 1943, the QF 17-Pounder was Britain’s answer to heavily armoured German tanks such as the Panther and Tiger. It became one of the most effective Allied anti-tank guns of the war, firing a variety of ammunition types including APCBC and the highly advanced APDS round. Cartridge cases such as this were produced in vast quantities across Britain, with Birtley (RLB) being one of the key sites responsible for high-quality brass case manufacture during the war.
*Condition*
In good original service-used condition, showing an attractive aged brass patina throughout. The body displays typical handling marks, scratches, and small dents consistent with use and storage. There is a noticeable impact indentation to the mid-body, which is entirely typical of ejected cases and adds to its authenticity. The mouth shows some unevenness and minor edge wear. The base is very scratched but retains clear legible markings, with areas of verdigris and residue around the primer pocket. The case is empty and inert. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3129BE_8865239347
