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Archaeology/Bronze cannon balls

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Expert: - 2/20/2011


Question

Pair of bronze cannon
Hi, I have had a pair of bronze cannon balls for about 20 years but know very little about them. I have searched the internet for comparables but have come up blank. I suppose they could be shot putts but it is very unlikely as the previous owner had three and he also told me they were cannon balls. Each is approximately 4 9/16ths inches in diameter and weigh between 11 and 12 pounds. They are almost certainly bronze and have rich patinas. There appears to be a round plug on each one (visible in the attached photo) but the plugs appear to be undisturbed and maintain the curvature of the balls perfectly. Any assistance in identifying their origin and/or confirming that they are indeed cannon balls would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Donald

Answer
Hi Donald,

They look more like 5+ inches in diameter.  Are there any other markings on them?  I will need better pics of the fuze (round plug) to determine if these are potentially live or not.  Please send them to my email address: rsalier@hotmail.com with the subject line "2 cannon balls".  

I look forward to getting the additional pics.
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentExtremely knowledgeable and helpful expert who responded very quickly. Thank you!!


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Ralph Salier

Expertise

Archaeologist for the last 30 years. Norh American generalist and Hopwell culture/Red Ocher culture specifically. Lithics Expert and Ground Stone tools.

Experience


Past/Present clients
Numerous museums in US and Canada. Several University Anthropology Departments.

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