Original U.S. American Civil War Federal Spherical Solid 42-Pounder Cannon Ball Shot - 6.9" Diameter

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely Civil War Federal Spherical 42-Pounder solid iron cannonball shot, measuring approximately 6.9" in diameter. This would indicate that it is a 42lb size.

During the early part of the war, the Federal army lacked rifled siege artillery. To fill this gap, the army rifled existing smoothbore pieces with the system developed by Charles T. James. Firing shot and shells also designed by James, these newly rifled smoothbores gave good service during the bombardment of Fort Pulaski in April 1862. However they were retired from frontline service soon after.

The cannonball is completely solid without any holes or fuzes. It is extraordinarily heavy and has some areas of material loss or what appear to be areas reinforced. A very interesting and oxidized example. Comes ready for further research and display.