Description
This is an early French cartridge made by Michel Javelle who was an early gun manufacturer from Saint-Étienne, France. There were three variations of this cartridge that were patented and made in the late 1850s to early 1860s. This is the third variation. Both of the earlier versions had the base of the pin holder visible and flush with the bottom of the case.
As seen in the patent images below, this lead-cased cartridge has a pin that is fixed to the inside of the base and goes up to a percussion cap that sits in the base of the bullet. There is also a raised “J” headstamp on these.








Hello, my name is Aaron Newcomer. I am a collector and researcher of early 19th century breech-loading firearms systems, with a particular focus on the work of Jean Samuel Pauly and Casimir Lefaucheux. I collect cartridges and documents related to these types of firearms and conduct research on these topics, furthering my understanding and knowledge of these historical firearms and their place in the evolution of firearms technology. My collection and research reflect my dedication to preserving and understanding the history and technical innovations of these early firearms systems.