Imperial German WWI Polte Magdeburg Artillery Base

Original Imperial German World War I brass artillery component manufactured by Polte Armaturen- und Maschinenfabrik AG of Magdeburg, one of Germany’s principal wartime ammunition producers. The base is clearly headstamped “POLTE MAGDEBURG” and dated “AUG 1914,” placing its manufacture during the opening month of the First World War.

The piece retains its original military inspection and production markings, including lot and acceptance stamps surrounding the central primer. Constructed of heavy solid brass, it has developed a rich untouched patina with scattered oxidation and honest age consistent with over a century of storage.

At some point after its military service, the component appears to have been repurposed into a small lidded container or keepsake box, a common practice using surplus artillery components after World War I. Whether displayed as an ordnance artifact or a piece of trench art, it represents an authentic relic from the earliest days of the Great War.

An outstanding addition to any Imperial German, World War I, artillery, or trench art collection.

Condition: Good original condition with attractive untouched patina, age-related oxidation, and complete original markings. Lid and base separate properly and display well.