need a ID on a large shell casing

[Ifoundit69]

I found this yesterday at a old farm . The measurements on the cartidge are 1 1/2 inches diameter and 5 1/2 inches in length it is stamped with a small anchor and the letters R.P.E and its either N N Y or two sideways ZZ's and a Y . It has a full rim with no grooves appears to be made of copper . Any help is appreciatted.

 

[Marc(NB)]

can it be a flare gun cartridge...

 

[Monty]

Brass ten guage or even 8 guage? Monty

 

[bradyboy]

looks to be a flare to me
Brady

 

[BioProfessor]

If there is no headstamp, I go with flare.

Daryl

 

[Lucas]

Handy table:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gauge_(bore_diameter)#Conversion_guide

The common Very pistol took a 1 inch flare. This one is 1.5 inches, which appears to be the early size.

 

[SkyPirate]

http://images.google.com/imgres?img...uge+shotgun+shell&hl=en&sa=G&gbv=2&tbs=isch:1

 

[wwace]

looks like part of a 37mm or 40mm cannon brass. are there any markings on the end?