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Archaeology/Possible Old Cannon Ball

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Expert: - 3/22/2011


Question

Old Metal Ball
We recently found this old metal ball when we were digging up an old flower bed outside our home. After searching on the internet it looks very similar to an old cannon ball. It has two holes, is about the size of a softball, and we have not determined the weight because we didnt want to mess with it any further. Can you please help us identify what it might be and if we need to take measures to make sure it is safe. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Amber,

This looks like it is a steel shot or small cannon ball. Are there any markings on the ball? Stamped numbers or letters?  The two plug holes being open would likly indicate that it is safe.  You can wash it out to make sure that what ever was inside is cleaned out. a hose should do it and will not damage it.  The larger hole would have been for the fuze and the smaller one for the charge set. These plugs would be made of brass or bronze and the larger of the two would have two small dimples or holes for removing the plug.  The larger one would have a hex hole in it, should you happen to find them in the flower bed.  It looks like it is about 4" in diameter.

Once you have it washed out, please weight it and let me know what it weighs and if there are any other markings.  

I'll give you some additional info once I get the weight, measurements and markings info.

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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