Rare WWII 1940 Swiss-Made 20mm Oerlikon Round for German Military

Step back into the history of World War II with this rare 20mm Oerlikon round, manufactured in 1940 by a Swiss arsenal for the German military. This unfired 20x110mmRB cartridge, designed for the Oerlikon FF autocannon, is a remarkable piece of military history from the early years of the conflict. The Oerlikon 20mm cannon was widely used by the German forces, particularly in naval and anti-aircraft roles, during their 1940 campaigns, including the Battle of Britain and the invasion of France.

The round bears the base marking “CH 20 40,” indicating Swiss manufacture (“CH” for Confoederatio Helvetica, the Latin name for Switzerland) in 1940. The side of the casing is stamped “A A 20 1940,” likely a batch or type designation specific to the Swiss producer. Most notably, the base features a small Waffenamt eagle—a German military acceptance mark—confirming that this round was inspected and accepted for use by the Wehrmacht. Switzerland, despite its neutrality, was a major supplier of 20mm ammunition to Germany, and this round is a testament to that wartime trade relationship.

The cartridge remains unfired, with an intact primer and the projectile securely attached to the brass casing. The round shows expected signs of age, including corrosion and patina, but retains its historical integrity. The projectile type is likely high-explosive incendiary (HEI) or armor-piercing (AP), typical for Oerlikon anti-aircraft and naval applications, though the exact type is difficult to determine due to worn paint markings.

Specifications:

• Caliber: 20mm (20x110mmRB, rebated rim)
• Manufacturer: Swiss (likely Oerlikon or a related arsenal)
• Year: 1940
• Markings: “CH 20 40” on base, “A A 20 1940” on side, Waffenamt eagle on base
• Condition: Unfired, with corrosion and wear consistent with age
• Length: Approx. 7.5 inches (including projectile)
• Weight: Approx. 0.5 lbs

Historical Context:In 1940, the German military relied heavily on 20mm autocannons for anti-aircraft defense and naval engagements. The Oerlikon FF, a Swiss-designed cannon, was a key weapon in these roles, and Swiss manufacturers supplied large quantities of 20x110mmRB ammunition to Germany. This round, produced in the pivotal year of 1940, would have been intended for use against Allied aircraft or ships during Germany’s early WWII offensives. The Waffenamt eagle on the base makes this piece particularly desirable for collectors, as it directly ties the round to German military use.

Collector’s Note:This 20mm Oerlikon round is a unique addition to any WWII military antiques collection, offering a tangible connection to the technological and geopolitical dynamics of the era. Its Swiss origin and German acceptance mark highlight the complex wartime relationships of neutral nations like Switzerland.

FREE SHIPPING!

kp44