24 Pdr. Coehorn Mortar (No 22)

This reprint of the M1841 Coehorn Mortar covers the nearly 300 Coehorns purchased by the Federals, and 23 by the Confederates, during the American Civil War. Although the Coehorn was retired after the Indian Wars, over 80 still survive today in private collections and museums.

The term Coehorn Mortar can be credited to a Dutch engineer, Baron Van Coehorn, who developed a small portable  mortar in the latter half of the 17th century. By the end of the Mexican War, this small mortar was well-known for its excellent service against the enemy. Firing the same 5.68 inch shell as the 24 Pdr. Field Howitzer, this small 164 pound mortar could drop a shell into enemy trenches .7 miles distant.