12Ga. Wills/Draper Shotshell Patented 1864 (12A)
Z6872 12Ga. Wills/Draper Shotshell Patented 1864 (12A)
Description: Here is an excellent example of what collectors refer to as the "Draper Shotshell.” This style of shell was patented by William H. Wills of Boston, Massachusetts under an "Improvement of Metallic Cartridges.” Wills was awarded Patent No. 45,292 dated November 29, 1864.
This shell was designed specifically for sportsmen and is somewhat similar to the design by George Morse. It’s a centerfire cartridge with an internal nipple. Upon firing, the base can be unscrewed, and a new primer can be placed over the nipple. This allowed the shells to be easily reloaded and reduced the need to carry multiple shells. All you needed was primers, powder, shot, etc.
These shells were manufactured by F. Draper & Company of East Cambridge, Connecticut. All the headstamps are F.D. & Co. which is why these shells are referred to as Draper shotshells.
This shell measures 2 9/16” in length and the measurements line up with a 12A shotshell. The head on this example is flat and partially worn. The patent information is legible with wear along the edges. The edges of the head are knurled for grip. The case has a few very small shallow bumps. The head freely unscrews. An excellent published example with a Civil War patent date!
Headstamp: "PATENTED NOV. 29 1864 / F.D. & Co."
Measures: 2.571” or 2 9/16” RD .871” HD .804”
Reference: "Rare and Unusual Shotshells in the United States” Frederickson & Nedza Pg. 147 (Circa 1864+)
Recovered: Ex. David "Doc” Frederickson Collection. Actual shotshell photographed on Pg. 147 No. 4 from Left.
Price: $110.00 UPS Shipping Required
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American Civil War Relics &
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