German, WW2, Relic Artillery Impact Fuze (AZ-Type), Inert

*German, WW2, Relic Artillery Impact Fuze (AZ-Type), Inert*

Original German Second World War artillery impact fuze, recovered in relic condition. This example is of compact, squat form with a domed steel striker cap seated into a cast alloy body, a construction typical of wartime German Aufschlagzünder (AZ) nose fuzes. A circular side port for the detonator or inspection plug is visible on the body, and the base retains its original profile, though now heavily oxidised.

The fuze measures approximately 7 cm in height with a base diameter of approx. 5.5 cm, placing it within the size range associated with German medium-calibre high-explosive artillery projectiles. All original surface markings have been lost as a result of prolonged burial and corrosion.

Historical Note:
During the Second World War, Germany employed a wide range of AZ-series impact fuzes on artillery ammunition, particularly for 7.5 cm, 8.8 cm, and 10.5 cm HE shells. These fuzes were designed to function on direct impact and were commonly manufactured using zinc-based alloys (Zamak) due to wartime material shortages. As a result, surviving examples are frequently encountered today in heavily corroded condition, especially those recovered from former training grounds or battlefield areas.

While precise sub-type identification is no longer possible due to the loss of markings, the form, materials, and construction of this example are entirely consistent with German WW2 AZ-pattern artillery fuzes such as the AZ 23 and related variants.

*Condition*
Relic condition throughout. Heavily oxidised with extensive surface corrosion and complete loss of markings. The domed striker cap remains intact but pitted, and the body shows significant corrosion consistent with long-term ground recovery. Structurally complete as a display relic only. Inert. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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