Mk51-0 5″ artillery projectile for mk 12 guns

This is an original U.S. Navy Mk 51-0 5-inch artillery projectile, manufactured for use with the 5″/38 caliber Mk 12 naval gun, one of the most important and widely deployed naval artillery systems of the Second World War. The Mk 12 gun armed U.S. Navy destroyers, cruisers, aircraft carriers, and shore installations, serving in both anti-surface and anti-aircraft roles.

The Mk 51-0 designation identifies an early pattern 5-inch projectile body, produced prior to later wartime modifications and improvements. Projectiles of this type were designed to accept a variety of nose fuzes depending on mission profile, including point-detonating, proximity, or time fuzes, allowing the Mk 12 gun system to engage aircraft, surface vessels, and shore targets with exceptional versatility. The robust construction reflects the demanding operational requirements of naval gunnery, including high rates of fire and sustained combat use.

The 5″/38 caliber system is widely regarded as one of the most successful dual-purpose naval guns ever fielded, and its ammunition represents a cornerstone of U.S. naval ordnance development. Mk 51 series projectiles saw extensive service across all major theaters of World War II and remained in use well into the postwar period due to the longevity of the Mk 12 gun.

As an intact projectile example, this Mk 51-0 offers strong historical and display value, illustrating the scale, engineering, and industrial output of U.S. naval warfare during the mid-20th century. It is well suited for advanced collections, museum exhibits, or educational displays focused on naval artillery, destroyer armament, or World War II ordnance technology.