Scamper,
Didn't know you were into that arena of sailing history, but right you are!
Knowledge of the armament of wooden vessels of sail proves interesting and useful.
For sunken ships of steel hull, the ship's bell is the "official" identifier of the vessel.
But for sunken wooden ships of the 17th and 18th centuries there is often little trace remaining except for ballast stones and cannon.
Detailed records of the ships' guns survive, even from the 17th century.
The style and ornamentation of the gun will identify its country of origin,
and the Royal Crest at the base of the tube will identify the reigning monarch at the cannons' casting. A serial number or casting number clinches the I.D.
Fascinating stuff!
