WW2 German 88 Shell

[Gildwiller1918]

Here is the iconic German 88 shell, completely inert as well. Possibly one of the most well known artillery pieces in modern history. The 8.8 cm Flak 18/36/37/41 gun was originally designed as the 8.8 cm Flak 18 used in WW1. The term "Flak" stands for: Flugzeugabwehrkanone, which means basically anti-aircraft cannon. These guns were made by both Krupp and Rheinmetall, and were very adaptable with many versions being made. The "88" was also found to be excellent in an anti-armor role as well. The gun itself was later installed on the famous Tiger tanks. 

This particular version is the 88×571R mm cartridge which was used on the Mod 1938 II, 8.8 cm Flak 36, 8.8 cm KwK 36, 8.8 cm Flak 37. The percussion fuse and shell body have several markings, the shell itself has obviously been repainted before getting to me. The shell casing is dated 1937, and is stamped WaA 43 which is the military acceptance stamp, this one is for the D.W.M. factory in Borsigwalde which was just NW of Berlin. 

Also included are several photos off the internet of the gun in action.