Revolutionary War 4-pounder cannonball, recovered along the Pamunkey River, VA

Being offered is a Revolutionary War 4-pounder solid-shot cannonball. It weighs 4 pounds, 1 ounce and has a diameter of 3 ¼”. During the Revolution both sides made extensive use of artillery along with many 4-pounder cannons (see pictures). This cannonball was recovered years ago in Virginia off of US Highway 360 (Mechanicsville Turnpike) along the Pamunkey River, where it crosses into King William County (see map).

During the American Revolutionary War, the Pamunkey River served as a vital, strategic waterway in Virginia, acting as a key supply route and a site of military maneuvering, particularly in 1781.

The river, which flows into the York River, was located in a heavily contested area during the final year of the war, with British forces, Patriot militias, and Continental troops frequently operating along its banks.  Hanover Town, located along the Pamunkey, was a colonial-era port that saw significant military activity, with British forces raiding the town during the war.  

In the summer of 1781, the Marquis de Lafayette marched his army of Continental troops and militia across the Pamunkey River at Ruffin's Ferry and encamped in King William County. From this location, Lafayette was able to observe Lord Cornwallis’s British forces, who were positioned across the York River at Yorktown and Gloucester.

Lafayette referred to this area as the "Forks of the York River" and used it to prevent British marches inland. The area was heavily involved in the troop movements that set the stage for the final, decisive battle of the Revolutionary War at Yorktown.

This ball was never cleaned or gone through electrolysis and remains just how it was recovered. It comes in the acrylic display case pictured.

With the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding this year, interest in Revolutionary War relics is expected to significantly increase. This renewed enthusiasm will drive demand for virtually all Revolutionary War artifacts, further contributing to their scarcity and rising prices.

I am witnessing a notable uptick in purchases of these items, which reflects the growing anticipation for the anniversary and the heightened value of Revolutionary War memorabilia.