5"/54cal Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile
$900.00
In stock
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5"/54cal Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile
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Own a rare and historically significant piece of U.S. naval ordnance with this restored 5"/54 Cal Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile. Designed for nighttime operations. This illumination projectile was a critical asset in naval warfare, providing enhanced visibility for target acquisition, anti-aircraft defense, and battlefield illumination.
The projectile's national stock number (NSN) is 1320-00-103-8876, and NAVAIR & NAVSEA part numbers 1305686, 1331825, and LD288810.
Historical Significance
The 5"/54 caliber Mark 42 naval gun, used extensively from the 1950s through the early 2000s, was a rapid-fire deck gun mounted on U.S. Navy destroyers and cruisers. This artillery system played a key role in surface warfare, anti-aircraft defense, and naval gunfire support across multiple conflicts, including the Vietnam War, Cold War naval operations, and the Gulf War.
The Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile was specifically designed to deploy a high-intensity flare via parachute, illuminating the battlefield for night operations, search-and-rescue missions, and enemy targeting. These rounds allowed U.S. naval forces to maintain superior situational awareness in low-light combat conditions, giving them a strategic advantage over enemy forces.
Key Features:
- Authentic U.S. Navy 5"/54 Cal Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile – Completely inert and safe for display
- Designed for the Mark 42 Naval Gun System – Used aboard U.S. Navy destroyers and cruisers
- NSN & NAVAIR/NAVSEA Designations
- NSN: 1320-00-103-8876
- PN (NAVAIR & NAVSEA): 1305686, 1331825, LD288810
- High-Intensity Illumination – Originally deployed with a parachute flare for night visibility
- Played a Key Role in U.S. Naval Engagements – Used in the Vietnam War, Cold War, and Gulf War
- Restored to Museum-Quality Condition – Professionally refinished for premium presentation
- Ideal for Collectors, Museums, and Military Displays – A rare and historically significant naval artifact
Why This Collectible Stands Out
This restored 5"/54 Cal Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile is a highly sought-after U.S. Navy artifact, representing the technological advancements of modern naval warfare. Whether displayed in a military museum, historical exhibit, or private collection, this piece is a true testament to the strategic importance of naval illumination rounds.
Unlike unrestored projectiles, this carefully polished and restored artifact ensures a premium display-quality finish, making it a striking centerpiece for any ordnance collection.
Limited Availability – Order Now!
With limited quantities of restored naval projectiles available, this is a unique opportunity to own a genuine piece of U.S. military history. Secure your restored 5"/54 Cal Mark 48 Star Shell Illumination Projectile today before it's gone!
References
CAPULDI page 1-35
OP1664 Page 41
https://www.iso-group.com/NSN/
Approx length 27", Approx width 5", Approx height 5", Approx weight 43lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item's general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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