West German, Cold War Era, 90 × 602 DM3 Tank Gun Shell Case (MMJ Lot 2 – Bundeswehr M47/M48 Patton), Inert

*West German, Cold War Era, 90 × 602 DM3 Tank Gun Shell Case (MMJ Lot 2 – Bundeswehr M47/M48 Patton), Inert*

A large-calibre 90 × 602 mm DM3 brass tank gun shell case, headstamped “90×602 DM3 – LOS MMJ 2”, indicating manufacture under Lot 2 by Metallurgica S.A., Malines (Mechelen), Belgium. This form was used with the American-designed 90 mm M36 gun, fitted to the M47 and M48 Patton tanks issued to the early Bundeswehr.

The case is of solid drawn brass construction, 60 cm tall with a 12.9 cm base diameter, retaining clear Bundeswehr-style sans-serif headstamp and a drilled primer confirming inert status. Displays a rich, natural patina throughout with fine machining marks to the base.

Historical Note:
The DM3 designation (Deutsches Modell 3) identifies this as a standardised Bundeswehr pattern case, introduced as part of the West German ordnance system established in the mid-1950s. The M47 and M48 Patton tanks were part of the initial armoured equipment issued to the Bundeswehr before the introduction of the Leopard 1 tank in the early 1960s.

The use of foreign-manufactured ammunition was common for the Cold War-era Bundeswehr, who sourced ordnance components and complete rounds from Belgium, the Netherlands, Greece, and Italy under NATO procurement agreements. Metallurgica of Malines was among the principal Belgian contractors supplying heavy brass cartridge cases to NATO partners, including Germany, during this period.

*Condition*
Good overall condition, retaining clear headstamp and undamaged rim, with expected age patina and light handling wear. Primer drilled inert. Inert. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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