*British, WW1 – Dated 1915, QF 18-Pounder Cartridge Case Mk II, by Elswick Ordnance Company (EOC), with Matching 1915 No.1 Mk II Primer*
An original and highly displayable British First World War QF 18-pounder cartridge case, dated 1915 and retaining its correct matching period No.1 Mk II primer dated May 1915, manufactured by the Elswick Ordnance Company. A strong, early-war example with clear markings and excellent untouched service patina.
This is the standard brass cartridge case for the famous British QF 18-pounder field gun, the backbone of British artillery throughout the First World War. The case is correctly stamped to the base “18 PR II,” denoting 18-pounder, Mark II pattern, and further marked “EOC,” identifying production by the Elswick Ordnance Company of Newcastle, one of the principal wartime manufacturers within the Armstrong Whitworth group.
The base is also dated “1915 C.F.,” indicating manufacture in 1915 for Cordite Full charge loading, and bears the British Broad Arrow acceptance mark along with a range of inspection and view stamps, including “E” in a square (Enfield inspection) and additional inspector’s marks such as “F,” “E,” and “Q.” A diamond mark containing “O M” is present, representing a contractor or sub-inspection stamp consistent with wartime production practices.
The case retains its original No.1 Mk II primer, clearly dated “5/15” (May 1915), also marked with the Broad Arrow and bearing the “K N” mark of Kynoch, one of the principal British ammunition component manufacturers. The presence of a correct, period primer significantly enhances the originality and collector appeal of the piece.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 29.5 cm. Base diameter: 10 cm.
History Note:
The QF 18-pounder field gun was the standard British field artillery piece of the First World War, widely regarded as one of the most effective and reliable guns of the conflict. Introduced in 1904, it remained in continuous front-line service throughout the war, firing high explosive, shrapnel, smoke, and other specialised ammunition types.
By 1915, production of ammunition had expanded significantly to meet the demands of trench warfare, with major industrial firms such as Elswick Ordnance Company playing a critical role in supplying the British Army. Early to mid-war dated cases such as this represent the period before peak mass-production of 1916–1918, and are increasingly sought after by collectors for their clearer markings and direct wartime association.
*Condition*
In good original condition with a well-developed, untouched brass patina throughout, showing service wear, age-related staining, and areas of oxidation consistent with storage and handling over time. The markings remain clearly legible. The primer is present and intact. No major splits or structural damage observed. An honest and complete example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
