JSG ESTATE LIQUIDATION

This remarkable piece of American military history is a genuine 75mm artillery shell casing marked '75 MM M61A1B1' with a manufacture date of 1953, expertly converted into a large decorative umbrella stand or floor vase through the folk art tradition known as trench art. The casing stands approximately 30-32 inches tall and features an ingeniously crafted perforated lower body section with uniform circular cutouts arranged in a honeycomb-like pattern across the entire cylindrical body, while the upper neck and mouth retain the original smooth copper-toned brass finish with a warm reddish-brown lacquered patina. The base retains the original stamped military headstamp markings clearly reading '75 MM M61A1B1' and '1953,' providing definitive identification and dating — a highly desirable feature for militaria collectors and authenticators. The 75mm artillery round was widely used by U.S. forces and allies during the Korean War era, making this 1953-dated casing a direct artifact of that Cold War period of American military production. A smaller brass cartridge casing is included alongside the large piece, adding additional display and collector value to the lot. The conversion work — drilling or punching the decorative perforations — represents skilled metalworking consistent with post-service craft traditions popular among veterans and collectors throughout the 20th century. Condition is Very Good overall; the large casing stands solidly on its original flared base rim, the lacquer/patina finish shows some variation and light surface wear consistent with age, and the perforations are cleanly executed with no cracking or structural compromise; the headstamp markings on the base are crisp and fully legible. This is an inert, deactivated casing with no propellant or explosive components, suitable for display, collection, or use as a functional umbrella or walking stick stand.