17th Century Ship Cannon
Price: $30,000 USD
We have a true unicorn here.
- This is a 4 pound, iron long gun that spent centuries at the bottom of the sea, and was recovered intact.
- It measures 85″long. 14″ diameter. 7″ at the muzzle. 3 3/4″ bore. Approx 1000 lbs.
- According to a top Marine archaeologist, and a leading authority on cannon (whose name I won’t mention here), this one is from the early 17th century. These are the facts. Verified.
- The following, is the story that is likely true, but not verified – In 1930, a bridge was being built from Yorktown to Gloucester point. One of the contractors, a company from upstate New York, found some cannons with their clamshell excavator. This one, was taken home to New York. The contractor kept it the rest of his life, and left it to his son. His son, becoming an old man himself, sold it to a man in Vermont. That is where I got it.
- You may think I’m overstating the rareness of this piece. I don’t.
- Have you ever seen a 4lb long gun? Maybe. Not likely though.
- Have you ever seen a shipwreck cannon? Possibly. In a museum or park.
- However, a cannon like this, that survived a shipwreck, and recovery, after centuries at watery depths is a true anomaly.
- This cannon wouldn’t have survived in saltwater. The corrosion would have destroyed it. However, the soft mud, under the brackish waters of a Chesapeake river, would create a perfect scenario.
- There is some mystery surrounding this cannon.
- Due to it’s size and shape, it was surely used as a chase cannon. Placed on the bow of a ship, it’s long enough to reach past the rigging.
- Where has this thing been? How many ports? How many battles were seen? How many shots were fired? Was it’s ship sunk from enemy fire, or was it scuttled to keep the French navy from landing?
- If it truly went down at Yorktown, it would have been in service for over a hundred years, already. Cannons were used on several ships during their lifespan.
- I, often times, imagine some young deck hand sitting on this cannon 400 years ago to sneak a quick break during his watch.
- So, we have some facts, some likelihoods, and some suspicions.
- What we have, is a great and rare piece of history.
- You can own something that NO ONE else has.
- That’s what all collectors want.
- I know, I am one. I’m also the present caretaker of this piece.
- Who’s next?
- It’s not a responsibility to be taken lightly.
- Free delivery within 500 miles!
- Located in Maryland
Details are deemed to be correct but are not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
Please contact us for further information sms@scrutonmarine.com
Scruton Marine Inc. Phone 519-583-1636