British, WWI, 18-Pounder Artillery Projectile with No. 80 Time & Percussion Fuze, Relic Condition, Inert

*British, WWI, 18-Pounder Artillery Projectile with No. 80 Time & Percussion Fuze, Relic Condition, Inert*

A First World War British 18-pounder artillery projectile, retaining its original copper driving band and fitted with a No. 80 time-and-percussion fuze, both components now in relic condition. The steel shell body shows heavy pitting and surface corrosion consistent with long-term burial or battlefield recovery, with the copper driving band retaining traces of engraved rifling marks from firing. The removable No. 80 fuze, faintly dated 1917, displays clear graduated timing rings and maker’s markings, though surface wear is evident. The interior of the shell is hollow and completely inert.

Historical Note:
The British 18-pounder field gun was the standard divisional artillery piece of the First World War, used extensively by the Royal Field Artillery from its introduction in 1904 through the end of the war. Its versatile high-explosive, shrapnel, and smoke projectiles made it the backbone of British indirect fire. The No. 80 fuze, introduced in 1907, combined a clockwork time fuze with a percussion back-up to detonate shrapnel shells either in the air or on impact, enhancing battlefield effectiveness.

*Condition*
Relic condition overall. Heavy corrosion to the steel body with pronounced pitting; fuze retains form but with worn surface and corrosion. Copper driving band intact with clear engraved rifling marks. All components are inert with no explosive content. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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