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British WW2 3pdr shell case, why the white cross?

Rrickoshae

Well-Known Member
Premium Member
Good afternoon, I wonder if someone knows the reason for the white cross painted on the base of this shell case? Does it denote the type of loading?
many thanks as always

Dave
 

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Note the word 'Luminous' Radium-226 has a half life of about 1600 years.

TimG

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What would be the best way to deal with the paint? There are still enough old clocks and watches around with it on.

As far as I know, it is fairly safe as long as you so not swallow any flakes of it. Would a coat of clear varnish over it make it less likely to flake off?

I was shown around a vintage aircraft at a museum by a former pilot of the particular type a few years back. He said that the compass had been removed for health and safety reasons as it was radioactive. He then remarked that he spent thousands of hours sitting a few inches away from one over his flying career.
 
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