“British, WW1, 18-pounder Shrapnel Shell Head with No. 80 Mk II Time & Percussion Fuse, Dated Feb 1918, (Somme Battlefield Recovery)” has been added to your cart. View cart
An original First World War Vickers-manufactured spiral steel flechette dart, as dropped from aircraft over enemy trenches early in the conflict. These aerodynamic steel darts were designed to penetrate helmets or cause severe injury when dropped from altitude, and were among the earliest forms of air-dropped anti-personnel weapons. Measures approx 11.8cm.
This example features the characteristic twisted spiral body for stability in flight, ending in a sharp point. Flechettes were typically carried in bundles in early reconnaissance and bomber aircraft and released manually or from racks. The design is attributed to several manufacturers, including Vickers, who supplied the British and allied forces. The majority of British and French flechettes were mass-produced without any individual maker or inspection marks.
Mounted on a display card with a descriptive label for presentation, with thread securing and clear reverse mounting as shown.
Historical Note: Flechettes saw limited but memorable use in WW1 before being supplanted by more advanced aerial munitions. They remain highly collectible as evocative relics of early aerial warfare.
*Condition* Good, stable condition with surface oxidation and age-related patina consistent with a battlefield-recovered or stored example. The metal shows no major deformations or cracks. Thread mounting is intact but can be removed if desired. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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