Description
GERMANY – WICKER TRANSPORT BASKET FOR A 15CM ARTILLERY SHELL
This is a first time item from Der Rittmeister Militaria, AND WE ARE EXCITED TO SHARE THIS WITH YOU. It is a wicker transport case for a 15cm artillery shell during WW I!
The Germans used a 15cm Schwere Feldhaubitze (15cm sFH 13) cannon. Approximately 3,400 of these cannons were produced by Krupp. These were generally behind the front lines and came under control of the Division artillery commander. The 15cm sFH 13 was able to fire at a rate of three rounds per minute and had an effective range of 9,600 yards. Each round weighed ninety-three pounds. The primary cannon of the German army was a 7.7cm (77mm) cannon and thousands of these were produced. These 77mm cannons were able to fire at a greater speed as the shells were smaller, lighter and able to be fire more rapidly. The Germans had many other guns larger than the 15cm and there were other versions of the 15cm aside from 15cm sFH 13.
The largest German cannon was the “Paris Gun” which was mounted on a railroad car it was served by eighty sailors and supervised by an Admiral. The gun came in two variations. First was the 21.8cm and later the 23.8cm. Barrels had to be constantly replaced. They generally shot about twenty rounds per day. They had a range of eighty-one miles. The shells would take three minutes to land and reached an estimated height of twenty-five miles.
Now, back to our transport case. There are two straps on either side with buckles. There is no attachment strap for either buckle. If there was ever a top it is no longer available. It should be noted that the Germans also used a 15cm cannon during WW II.
Overall condition of this wicker transport case is excellent.
This item would look great near the front door disguised as an umbrella holder. Then to the surprise of your guests you will reveal its true history! What a conversation starter!
