77mm Shell (Not Case) Trench Art

**Spitace41** · 03-20-2014, 02:35 PM

Hi all. This came from a small auction recently. Very happy to have it as I have seen hundreds of shell cases as trench art, but only a handful of actual shells. The shield is screwed on and bears the inscription "Belgium 1915". I am puzzled as to why there are two holes in this shell though, perhaps someone turned it into a lamp at some point? Cheers.

Also, it has a bit of a blue tinge to it, especially around the driving band, does anyone know what a blue 77mm shell would indicate? Thanks again.

**bananamafia** · 03-20-2014, 02:36 PM

Love it. good find mate!

**SteveR** · 03-20-2014, 05:07 PM

1st I have seen.

**lebus12** · 03-20-2014, 05:11 PM

Interesting, do you think it was made in 1915 or after the war? In 1915, there was not so many steel, but after the war, it was different.

**Scout** · 03-20-2014, 05:21 PM

Nice.

**Spitace41** · 03-20-2014, 05:25 PM

by lebus12

Interesting, do you think it was made in 1915 or after the war? In 1915, there was not so many steel, but after the war, it was different.

Good question, hard to tell really. But as the date is fairly early in the War, I think it is likely that it was done during the War. I have read in a few accounts about how soldiers on both sides dismantled shells, mortars and grenades for souvenirs. If it was done post- War I would expect the inscription to read "1914- 1918" or similar.