Can You Identify This Rifle Shell Please?

[C. Nyal de Kaye]

Can anyone identify this one please? The following may be a clue. A few days ago I found the button pictured below.

Through the great data base that columns like this one have created, it was soon revealed to be a button from the uniforms of the Victorian Volunteer Rifles - circa 1860-1870.

This centre-fire shell was found just a few steps from the button - it was one of two, but the other is in an even worse state of deterioration. Whilst I was cleaning it, a part broke off, hence the sticky tape.

The measurements are in Imperial as it was made in that mode. This is a heavy gauge shell and the projectile would have had a hefty impact. The bullet is 1/2 inch in diameter, the shell case at the other end is 3/4 inch diameter, and it is 2 and 3/8 inches long.

A good question might be; what sort of weapons did the Victorian Volunteer Rifles have, and does this shell fit it? And, of course, the shells may have had nothing to do with the button found nearby.

Any clues please?

 

[Ausibloke]

I think that cartridge case may be that of a .577/450 martini henry rifle, they were adapted by the british and some of the colonies, I stand to be corrected..
Nice finds by the way..

Good hunting

 

[C. Nyal de Kaye]

Thanks Ausibloke - that Martini Henry .577/450 does seem to be the one. The measurements of the shell seem to be about right and the pics line up with the cartridge that I have. I have been in contact with some local historic societies about the connection (or lack of connection) between the button and the cartridge. I will post it on these pages when and if I get an answer.