This is an impressive example of an Ordnance QF 18-pounder gun. These were introduced in British military service in 1904 as a replacement for the BL 15-pounder, and became the standard field gun used in World War I and after. Later variants remained in service with the British military until it was phased out in 1942 as replaced by the Ordnance QF 25-pounder. Approximately 10,000 QF 18-pounder guns were reportedly manufactured during World War I by Armstrong Whitworth, Vickers, Sons & Maxim (V.S.M.), Woolwich Ordnance, Beardmore, Elswick Ordnance Company in the United Kingdom, and Bethlehem Steel in the United States, with a limited amount made between the wars, and a small fraction surviving today. These 18-pounders were effectively used on all fronts during World War I, and formed the backbone of the Royal Field Artillery as a gun with quick-firing (QF) capability designed to be towed behind limber and horses. "Q.F. 18Pr MkII./V.S.M.(logo)1916./No5732" marked on top of the breech, with Martin-Parry Corporation manufacturer marked Mk I carriage with brass data plate on the left that reads "18Pr Q-F-MkI./V.S.M. 1914/REG No C 32930". Includes scope.