A Souvenir of Ypres

First World War engraved shell case

When an artillery shell was fired during the First World War, the brass shell case was ejected from the artillery guns and discarded or recycled. The Gunners became expert at engraving and shaping the shells, which they then sold to other soldiers. This one has a tunic button of the Royal Irish Fusiliers and replicates the khaki peaked cap worn by all British soldiers.