Exceptional and authentic WWII trench art souvenir, handcrafted from a spent artillery shell casing, most likely from the Ardennes front (Bastogne, 1944–45).
The dish features a beautifully hand-tooled relief of a U.S. M4 Sherman tank, surrounded by parachutes and aircraft, symbolizing the 101st Airborne Division.
The famous word “NUTS” – General McAuliffe’s legendary reply to the German surrender demand during the Battle of Bastogne – is prominently inscribed above the tank.
The bottom edge bears the word “BASTOGNE”, confirming its origin.
This piece was crafted from copper or brass, likely by an American GI or a local craftsman just after the liberation, as a remembrance of the heroic defense of Bastogne.
Shows genuine age and patina, with traces of verdigris oxidation typical of old copper.
A true piece of WWII history and an impressive example of front-line trench art from one of the most iconic battles of the war.
Dimensions: approx. 18–20 cm diameter
Material: copper/brass from shell casing
Condition: authentic wartime patina, minor dents and oxidation (as shown)
Period: 1944–1945
➡️ Rare original “NUTS Bastogne” trench art – a must-have for any Battle of the Bulge or U.S. Army collection.