5,5cm Flak A shell case (any toughts , ID)

[Bananaboat]

Hi there,
i have this 5,5cm Flak case , but the length is only 187mm
The headstamp says 5,5cm Flak A. Does anyone know what the "A" stands for?
Aushilf / Clearing ??

Or is it just a case that is been cutdown?

thanks for your help!

Best,
John R.

 

[EOD]

Cut down and used as a vase. They show up every now and then. Usually the belt is truned down on a lathe. The primer pocket is plugged.

 

[AZ23-28]

A is Aushilfs case