Rare WWI 1917 American Fuse Company Inert Artillery Time Fuze

Step back into the history of World War I with this authentic 1917 artillery time fuze, a remarkable piece of military history manufactured by the American Fuse Company (A.F. Co.). This inert fuze, marked “A.F. Co. Lot 25 1917,” was produced during the United States’ entry into the Great War, a time when artillery played a pivotal role on the battlefields of Europe. Likely designed for use with shrapnel shells in field guns such as the 75mm or larger howitzers, this fuze would have been set to detonate mid-air, raining fragments on enemy positions.

Historical Significance:This fuze is a mechanical time fuze, featuring a graduated scale (0 to 130) for setting the detonation time, a critical feature for airburst shells used against infantry and trench positions. The American Fuse Company was a key supplier for the U.S. Army during WWI, and this piece, dated 1917, represents the industrial effort to support the Allied forces. It’s a tangible link to the artillery barrages that defined the conflict, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of early 20th-century military technology.

Physical Details:

• Material: Brass/bronze, showing natural patina and oxidation consistent with its age.
• Markings: Clearly stamped “A.F. Co. Lot 25 1917” on the base, with a partial “F.C.” or “F.G.” marking on the top. The graduated scale is etched into the side, with numbers still legible despite wear.
• Condition: The fuze exhibits signs of age, including surface rust, discoloration, and minor pitting, adding to its authentic character. It has a threaded base for attachment to a shell, with visible setting holes for a fuze setter tool.

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