Original U.S. Pre-WWI Winchester 1898 Breech Loading 10g Signal Cannon - Serial #108

Original Item. Only One Available. The Winchester Model 98 breech-loading signal cannon holds a significant place in the history of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, signaling cannons were commonly used for festive occasions, sailboat races, coastal morning wake-up calls, and alerting others to fog or dangers. These small cannons were designed to fire loud blank charges rather than projectiles, making them effective for signaling and saluting.

Not Available for Export.

Recognizing the demand for high-quality signaling cannons, Winchester Repeating Arms Company entered the market in 1903 with the Model 98. Known for their excellence in firearm manufacturing, Winchester's introduction of the Model 98 set a new standard in the industry, marking an important chapter in both the company's history and the evolution of signal cannons.

In 1898, a new breech-loading signal cannon was developed and designated as the Model 98, reflecting the year work on it commenced. Designed by Charles H. Griffith, an assistant superintendent at Winchester, the cannon was patented in 1901. The U.S. Patent, numbered 681,021, was granted on August 20, 1901, for the 10-gauge breech-loading Winchester Cannon. Griffith's design prioritized safety, durability, and loudness. The cannon featured a 10-gauge chamber and a tilting breech block, similar to those used in large artillery pieces of the time. This design allowed for easier loading, marking a significant improvement over the traditional muzzle-loading black powder cannons of that era.

This is a magnificent example of the now very scarce Winchester 10g signal cannon! The top of the barrel reads:

NOT FOR BALL
MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO.
NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. PATENTED AUGUST 20, 1901. 10GA.

The underside of the barrel and the barrel band are both stamped with the serial number, 108. Both sides of the cart read:

W.R.A. Co.
TRADE MARK
REGISTERED IN U.S.A.

The cannon has some minor oxidation issues but nothing too serious. The finish on the cannon is very well retained, and the breech still opens, closes, and cocks as it’s meant to. Pulling back the cock will release the firing pin.

The cannon measures roughly 7 ¾ x 16 x 6 ½”. By 1958, just over 18,400 cannons were manufactured, making this serial number 108 example a VERY early production.

An outstanding piece to display or use, a very early production Model 98 Winchester signal cannon! Comes ready for further research and display.