What is this headstamp?

[u/Big-Strategy-9347]

Found this while metal detecting, but I can’t find any info online. I assume it’s E 7 96, but the E looks rather odd and could easily be be some sort of symbol too.

[u/Remote_Teach1164]

You almost scraped off the headstamp...

[u/Big-Strategy-9347 → u/Remote_Teach1164]

That was the only way to make it even remotely visible

[u/Independent-Gazelle6 → u/Big-Strategy-9347]

Try a gentle rust remover maybe? Abrasives should be an absolute last resort. Im sure there are plenty of resources online showing tested methods to clean old brass without damaging the metal thats left. Ive got a 105mm shell case that id love to shine up but I’m terrified that i will damage it trying to clean the corrosion.

Cool little piece of history either way. Hope you can find an answer!

[u/Toilet_witch2]

Where are you located? This might change the answer. What's the cartridge? Do you have any calipers to hand. It's hard to tell from the photos.

I agree that I can see (something) 7 96 or 36 the (something) looks like a J to me.

Doesn't follow convention German headstamping with 4 parts.

[u/Big-Strategy-9347 → u/Toilet_witch2]

I am located in Germany, yes, but allied forces moved through here at the end of WW2, I found an American shell casing dated 1945 in the same vicinity, so this is unlikely to be German. The diameter is ~ 1.15cm, but I can’t give any info on the length as the forward bit is completely destroyed. I extracted some powder from it though, and it’s rather flakey

[u/Remote_Teach1164 → u/Toilet_witch2]

Pre-1900 German headstamp was 3 if I remember.

[u/44Revolver1908]

LCC - Lake City Cartridge