Description
6-Pounder / 2.24-Inch D. Schr. Mark III Brass Cartridge Case – F.A. 1913
This original U.S. brass cartridge case was manufactured by Frankford Arsenal in 1913. Its detailed headstamp identifies it for use with 57mm Driggs-Seabury Models 1898 and 1900 guns and the Driggs-Schroeder Mark III. The clear markings and early production date make this case an excellent artifact for an ordnance, Coast Artillery, or Spanish-American War-era collection.
Headstamp Identification
“2.24 in Guns” identifies the bore size, which equals about 57mm. “6 Pdr” refers to the original projectile’s approximate six-pound weight, not the weight of the empty case. “D.S. Mod. of 98 & 00” identifies compatibility with the Driggs-Seabury Models 1898 and 1900. “D. Schr. Mark III” refers to the Driggs-Schroeder Mark III gun. “F.A. 1913” records manufacture at Frankford Arsenal in 1913. A small “A” is also visible and was likely an inspection or acceptance mark.
Construction and Original Function
This rimmed, solid-drawn brass case was part of a fixed 6-pounder cartridge. When complete, the case held the primer, propellant charge, and projectile as one unit. This design helped crews load and fire faster than older guns that used separate ammunition parts. The broad rim gave the gun’s extractor a firm surface for removing the case after firing.
Weapons-System History
William H. Driggs and Seaton Schroeder developed their rapid-fire gun system during the late 1800s. The guns used a quick-working breech and fixed metallic ammunition to deliver a high rate of fire. Driggs-Schroeder 6-pounders served aboard several U.S. Navy warships, while the U.S. Army adopted Driggs-Schroeder Mark II and Mark III guns along with later Driggs-Seabury Models 1898 and 1900. The shared ammunition family explains why all three patterns appear on this case.
History of Use
Army 6-pounders were placed on wheeled parapet or rampart mounts that could be secured to prepared positions. They served at coastal forts, on troop transports, and in land-defense positions where crews needed a light, fast-firing gun. Their duties included guarding harbor approaches, supporting troops, and defending against landing parties or small, fast vessels. Some guns later served as saluting pieces. By 1919, the Army had declared the Models 1898 and 1900 and the Driggs-Schroeder Mark III obsolete.
Frankford Arsenal History
Frankford Arsenal in Philadelphia was one of the United States Army’s main ammunition development and production centers. It manufactured cartridge cases, primers, tools, and many other ordnance items. The 1913 date places this case shortly before World War I, during a period when the Army was maintaining older coastal weapons while developing newer artillery systems.
Condition and Display
The photographed example shows age-related brass patina, handling marks, light staining, and a clearly readable headstamp. The central primer assembly remains present, but its condition cannot be confirmed from a photograph. This listing is for the cartridge case only and does not include a projectile or propellant charge. It is intended as a historical collectible and display piece, not for loading or firing.
Collector Appeal
This case combines an early Frankford Arsenal date with markings for three uncommon American rapid-fire gun models. It is well suited for military museums, Coast Artillery displays, naval history collections, classroom exhibits, and private ordnance collections.
Approx length 12", Approx width 3", Approx height 3", Approx weight 2.5lbs.
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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