Gun Collectors Dream Auction #86 Collector Auction
Lot 1426:
Description
This lot consists of a vintage original box of Kynoch .404 Nitro-Express ammunition containing five rounds. Manufactured at the Kynoch Factories of Imperial Chemical Industries Limited (ICI), Metals Division in Witton, Birmingham, England, these cartridges are designed for large game and feature 400-grain metal-covered solid bullets with 2-7/8 inch brass cases. Prominent markings on the yellow and red box include the manufacturer and caliber designation KYNOCH . 404 2 7/8 CASE NITRO-EXPRESS (10.75 x 73) CARTRIDGES, along with the technical specification NON-MERCURIC, NON-CORROSIVE CAPS. A red advisory panel on the lower front face notes IMPORTANT MUZZLE VELOCITY INCREASED TO 2225 FT./SEC. RIFLE SIGHTED FOR CORDITE CARTRIDGES SHOULD BE RE-ZEROED. The reverse of the box displays the ICI logo and a white adhesive tape strip stamped with 7 I K, a bird symbol, and S. The individual cartridges feature headstamps marked KYNOCH and . 404.
Condition report:
The cardboard box shows typical age-related shelf wear, including fraying at the edges, minor corner compression, and light surface staining, but remains structurally sound. The five cartridges are in good vintage condition; the brass cases exhibit a natural aged patina and light surface oxidation consistent with their age. The copper-covered solid bullets are securely seated and show no significant corrosion or deformation. Primers are unspent and appear well-preserved. While visually consistent with factory-loaded ammunition, these vintage cartridges have not been test-fired and are sold as collectible items only.
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