Description
Naval Nordenfelt 57mm 6-Pounder Brass Cartridge Case with “N” Marking
Item Overview
This original brass cartridge case is from the 6-pounder, or 57mm, ammunition family. The case head retains its central primer assembly and displays a large “N” consistent with Nordenfelt manufacture.
Identification and Features
Item type: Artillery cartridge case
Caliber family: 6-pounder or 57mm
Common naval cartridge size: 57x307mmR
Material: Brass
Visible marking: Large “N” for Nordenfelt
Primer: Central primer assembly remains installed
Configuration: Case only; no projectile or complete cartridge
Original Purpose
A complete 6-pounder cartridge combined this case with a primer, powder charge, and projectile. When fired, the brass case expanded against the chamber walls to help contain the propellant gases. The rim allowed the gun’s extractor to remove the empty case after firing so the crew could quickly load another round.
Weapons-System History
The 57mm quick-firing gun entered naval service during the late 1800s. Hotchkiss, Driggs-Schroeder, Nordenfelt, and related designs were mounted on warships, patrol vessels, and coastal defenses. Their main early purpose was to stop torpedo boats and other small craft that could approach larger ships faster than heavy naval guns could track them.
History of Use
Six-pounder guns served as secondary armament aboard battleships, cruisers, gunboats, and smaller vessels. Related models were also used in coastal fortifications and early armored vehicles. As the caliber became outdated for front-line combat, some surviving guns continued to serve in training and ceremonial saluting roles.
Cartridge Identification
The term “6-pounder” refers to the approximate weight of the original projectile, while the gun’s bore measured about 57mm or 2.24 inches. Several nations produced different 57mm cartridge cases that were not interchangeable. The widely used early naval pattern measured approximately 57x307mmR, but this case’s exact chambering should be confirmed from complete measurements because the headstamp is heavily worn.
Condition
This case shows substantial age and service wear, including heavy patina, oxidation around the primer, scratches, stains, worn markings, and surface discoloration. The photographed example also has a visible crack extending inward from the edge of the case head. It is offered only as a collectible or display component and is not suitable for loading or firing.
Ideal For
This case is well suited for naval-ammunition collections, 57mm ordnance displays, early quick-firing gun exhibits, military museums, coastal-artillery research, restoration reference, or historical study.
Approx length 12", Approx width 3", Approx height 3", Approx weight lbs.
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.
Please visit our page about order lead times here: Order Lead Times.