Pair of WW2 British 25 Pounder Trench Art Shell Cases – 1942 Dated – German Artillery Motifs

An impressive and highly decorative matched pair of WW2 British 25-pounder brass shell cases, both dated 1942 and extensively worked in repoussé trench art style with German military and artillery-themed motifs.

These striking shell cases have developed a deep, dark oxidised patina over time, giving them an attractive aged appearance and enhancing the detail of the hand-worked decoration.

Item Details:
Item: Pair of trench art shell cases
Origin: British 25-pounder artillery shell cases
Date: Both dated 1942
Material: Brass
Decoration: Repoussé-worked German artillery and military motifs
Markings: Includes “A.B.T.”, “J.”, and “1-2 R.V.A.” inscriptions
Condition: Good vintage condition with heavy age-related patina and oxidation consistent with age
Historical Context

The British QF 25-pounder was the principal field artillery piece used by British and Commonwealth forces during the Second World War, firing a separate projectile and brass cartridge case. It became one of the most successful and widely used artillery weapons of the war.

Decorative shell cases such as these fall into the category commonly known as trench art, where spent military materials were transformed into decorative or commemorative objects. Shell cases were particularly popular for this purpose due to their durability and the ease with which brass could be engraved, repoussé-worked, and embellished.

Markings & Interpretation

The shell cases feature several intriguing inscriptions:

A.B.T. — possibly an abbreviation of the German word Abteilung (detachment, battalion, or artillery battalion).
J. — potentially an individual, unit, or battery designation.
1–2 R.V.A. — possibly relating to an artillery formation or reserve artillery unit designation.

As with much trench art, definitive interpretation can be difficult, and prospective buyers are encouraged to make their own assessment based on the photographs provided.

Collectability
Matched pair of 1942-dated shell cases
Constructed from genuine British 25-pounder artillery cases
Attractive repoussé decoration with German military themes
Rich dark patina developed over many decades
Excellent display pieces for collectors of:
WW2 militaria
Artillery memorabilia
Trench art
Military decorative arts
Display

These shell cases make an outstanding display pair and would suit:

Military collections
Study or office display
Trench art collections
WWII artillery-themed exhibits