*RARE -German, WW2 – Dated 1944, 8.8cm Flak 41 Brass Cartridge Case, “asb” (DWM Berlin-Borsigwalde), WaA43 Marked*
An excellent and highly displayable original German WW2 8.8cm Flak 41 brass cartridge case, clearly dated 1944 and retaining sharp, well-struck base markings including the desirable “asb” manufacturer code and WaA43 Waffenamt inspection stamp. A large, visually striking piece, ideal as a centrepiece for any advanced artillery or Flak collection.
This is the long-pattern cartridge case for the 8.8cm Flak 41, the more powerful and less common successor to the earlier Flak 18/36/37 series. Unlike the more frequently encountered 88mm cases associated with the Tiger I and standard Flak guns, the Flak 41 required a significantly longer and higher-capacity case, giving this example an impressive scale and presence.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 85.4 cm. Base diameter: 12 cm.
The base is crisply stamped:
“8,8 Flak 41” – confirming the specific gun system
“44” (in two places) – production year, 1944
“asb” – manufacturer code for Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken AG (DWM), Berlin-Borsigwalde
WaA43 – German Army Waffenamt acceptance mark
This is a particularly desirable example for several reasons. At over 85cm tall, it is substantially larger than the more common 8.8cm Flak 18/36/37 cases (typically around 57cm), making it a true “statement piece” display item. Importantly, it is manufactured in solid brass, whereas by 1944 many German cases had transitioned to steel to conserve copper, making late-war brass examples notably less common.
The Flak 41 itself was produced in relatively limited numbers (approximately 550 units) compared to the tens of thousands of earlier 88mm guns, and this relative scarcity is reflected in surviving components. The presence of the “asb” (DWM) maker code adds further appeal, as DWM is one of the most recognisable and sought-after German wartime munitions manufacturers.
History Note:
The 8.8cm Flak 41 represented the final and most powerful evolution of Germany’s famous “88” anti-aircraft gun family. Designed to counter high-altitude Allied bombers, it featured a longer barrel and significantly increased muzzle velocity compared to earlier models. Despite its improved performance, the gun was complex and costly to produce, resulting in relatively limited manufacture. Consequently, original Flak 41 components—especially large, clearly marked brass cases—are increasingly sought after by collectors.
*Condition*
Condition is good and very displayable. The brass has developed an attractive aged patina throughout. There are scattered handling marks and a visible impact dent to the upper body, consistent with ejection and service use—these heavy cases were forcibly expelled from the breech and often struck the ground or gun platform. Such marks are widely regarded by collectors as honest service wear rather than detrimental damage. The base markings remain clear and well defined. The primer is absent, which is typical for inert or recovered examples and does not detract from display. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
Please contact the shop prior to purchase if you'd like to arrange collection.
JAQ#3127BE_6986239289
