12pdr Shrapnel markings to shell and fuze query

[Rrickoshae]

Good evening, I wonder if anyone can suggest what the ‘U‘ on the No.55 fuze and ‘ I over CSF ‘ means on this 12pdr base ejection shrapnel shell? The usual date on the side of the shell is absent and the base is only marked ‘12 pdr B.L and F.S’ but the fuze is dated 1888.
Is CSF a manufacturer or does it have a meaning?

many thanks, Dave

 

[Snufkin]

CSF - Cossipore Shell Factory, so the shell is of Indian origin.

 

[Rrickoshae]

Thank you very much for that Snufkin, that one’s come a long way!

best regards, Dave

 

[BMG50]

I suspect at that time victorian era being posted to India was very common in the military even before WW2 in the 20s and 30s, such souvenirs would have found their way back to the UK for the mantle place or fireside as a memento of service. I know someone who has a cannon ball base and original fuze inert as a bring back from their great great grandfather in victorian times as a family heirloom.

 

[Rrickoshae]

Quite a lump to carry home to the family though!
anyone any thoughts on the U stamped on the fuze?