I haven't entered on this as I know little on ordnance and shot, but pretty fascinating discussion. I would have thought as Cel had suggested originally these might be weights for line etc.
Good notes on the nature of mill balls, and it seems there are likely a number of uses for these kinds of iron balls.
Amazing images of that cannon ball from French fort in Canada with the British broad arrow! I like the display with the vintage book in context!
Years ago I had an old cannon ball from War of 1812 I got in New Orleans. It was a smaller one but recall the puzzled reaction by security at the airport.
It sat on my desk for many years, until one day it literally disintegrated, rust corrosion from within.
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