VERY RARE STEEL BASE WW1 ERSTAZ TRENCH ART SHELL CASE-R.M.F. AG 8

Description

VERY RARE STEEL BASE WW1 ERSTAZ TRENCH ART SHELL CASE-R.M.F. AG 8

GERMAN ERSTAZ TRENCH ART SHELL CASE This is a WW1 trench art shell case with a steel base. The steel base was introduced in about 1915 to save on the use of brass. (Ersatz meaning substitute or replacement) VERY FEW WERE USED for trench art, ass “all brass” shells were preferred, making this a RARE item. Very few of these steel base shells survive today, as, unlike brass, the base would rust away. The fact that it was made into trench art, has led to its survival! There are no markings on the base, however the primer is marked with “R.M.F.” and the number 8. Dated 1917

Shellcase has been lovingly engraved with YPRES and some foliage.

Size 13cm high x 7.7cm diameter at the top

VERY RARE STEEL BASE WW1 ERSTAZ TRENCH ART SHELL CASE-R.M.F. AG 8