Williams Cleaner Bullet Value Guide

The Williams Cleaner Bullet is a specialized Civil War projectile patented by George P. Williams in 1861 to address black powder fouling. Its unique mechanical design allowed it to scrape the rifle barrel during discharge, making it a vital piece of 19th-century military innovation.

What Is Williams Cleaner Bullet Worth?

The typical price range for Williams Cleaner Bullet is $75 - $90 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the lead and the presence of the original cleaning disc significantly impact the $75-$90 price range.
• Rarity of the specific variant, such as Type I, II, or III, affects collector demand.
• Provenance or discovery location linked to specific Civil War battlefields can increase value.
• Overall preservation of the spiral grooves and lack of 'pot marks' or corrosion.

How to Identify Williams Cleaner Bullet?

• Look for the distinct zinc or lead disc at the base designed to expand upon firing.
• Identify the characteristic spiral grooves or ribs on the body of the lead projectile.
• Verify the hollow base construction which is the hallmark of the 1861 patent design.
• Check for authentic oxidation or 'white' lead patina consistent with 1861-1865 artifacts.

History of Williams Cleaner Bullet

The Williams Cleaner Bullet was patented by George P. Williams in 1861 and saw use during the American Civil War. Its innovative design, with a hollow base that expanded upon firing, helped scrape fouling from rifle barrels, thus improving accuracy and reducing the need for frequent cleaning during battle.