Product Description

This inert WWII French 25mm cannon shell, marked with the headstamp “36 MR”, is a fine example of the ammunition used in the 25 mm Hotchkiss modèle 1934 and modèle 1937 anti-tank guns—the primary armour-defeating weapons of the French Army in the years leading up to 1940. The “36” marking confirms production in 1936, while the “MR” manufacturer code correctly identifies Manufacture de Machines du Haut-Rhin (Manurhin) of Mulhouse-Bourtzwiller, France, a major French producer of small-arms ammunition and cannon rounds prior to the Second World War.

Manurhin ammunition is highly regarded by collectors for its quality and for its direct association with France’s urgent re-armament efforts before the outbreak of hostilities. These 25 mm rounds were designed to penetrate early armoured vehicles and were issued broadly to infantry, motorised units, and fortress troops. Though later overshadowed by larger calibres, the 25 mm Hotchkiss gun was valued for its accuracy, reliability, and ease of deployment.

This shell has been fully inert, with no explosive components, making it safe for handling and display. With its clear headstamp and well-preserved case, it is an excellent addition for collectors of French WWII ordnance, anti-tank weapons, Hotchkiss systems, or early-war artillery ammunition.