Own an iconic piece of U.S. Navy firepower with this inert restored 8"/55 Cal Mark 17 Common Projectile. Standing at 3 feet tall and weighing 260 pounds, this formidable shell was designed for both armor-piercing and high-explosive impact, making it a versatile weapon for engaging enemy warships, shore installations, and fortified targets.
The 8"/55 caliber Mark 17 Common Projectile was developed for use in U.S. Navy heavy cruisers, fired from the 8"/55 caliber Mark 16 naval gun, which was the primary armament of Baltimore-class and Des Moines-class cruisers. These ships played a crucial role in World War II, the Korean War, and early Cold War conflicts, delivering devastating firepower in both naval engagements and shore bombardments.
The Mark 17 was classified as a "Common" projectile, meaning it was a hybrid between armor-piercing (AP) and high-explosive (HE) shells, capable of:
Heavy cruisers armed with 8"/55 caliber naval guns proved their worth in major conflicts, providing offensive firepower in fleet actions and close support for ground forces. The Mark 17 Common Projectile was a key component of the U.S. Navy's long-range firepower strategy, ensuring dominance at sea and in coastal operations.
This inert restored 8"/55 Cal Mark 17 Common Projectile is an exceptionally rare and historically significant artifact, showcasing the firepower that defined U.S. Navy heavy cruisers in World War II and beyond. Whether displayed in a museum, historical exhibit, or private collection, this impressive naval round commands attention as a true piece of American military history.
With its hybrid design combining armor penetration and explosive power, the Mark 17 played a crucial role in U.S. Navy operations, and very few surviving examples remain available for collectors.
Approx length 36", Approx width 8", Approx height 8", Approx weight 260lbs.
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