Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptionally scarce original U.S. inert warhead for the 5-inch High Velocity Aircraft Rocket, commonly known as the HVAR or by the nickname “Holy Moses.” Developed during WWII as an unguided air-to-ground rocket, the HVAR saw extensive use against vehicles, fortifications, shipping, and other ground targets and remained in service into the Korean War and postwar period. This is the first example we have ever offered, and from the markings it likely dates to after the Second World War, though the stenciled markings are too faded to be read.

Unloaded or dummy grenades, artillery shell casings, and similar devices, which are cut or drilled in an BATF-approved manner so that they cannot be used as ammunition components for destructive devices, are not considered NFA weapons. This example is in total compliance and is NOT AVAILABLE FOR EXPORT.

This warhead measures 21¼” tall with a 5” diameter. The side of the round is stamped vertically with 128 -467011-A-US H. There are three lines of stenciled markings on the side of the warhead, but they are unfortunately too faded to transcribe. With some work they could likely be read. We can make out some numbers in the second line, 46/910, which count mean a date of 1946, but we cannot say for sure. 

The side of the bottom portion of the fuze is stamped with 422501- - - USH P. The fuze assembly is still unscrewable for inspection of the empty interior.

The HVAR was developed during WWII to provide U.S. aircraft with a powerful, high-velocity unguided rocket capable of attacking hardened and armored targets. The 5-inch diameter warhead was mounted to a rocket motor and launched from aircraft-mounted rails. The design proved effective enough to remain in service after WWII and continued to see use during the Korean War.

The combination of the surviving stamped serial or production markings, faded original stenciling, complete removable fuze assembly, substantial size, and intact warhead body makes this an unusually impressive example of U.S. airborne ordnance. In its present inert configuration, it provides an excellent study and display piece representing the heavy rocket armament carried by American aircraft during the final years of WWII and the early Cold War period.