An OLD Ammo question..

[Mr. 16 gauge]

Could it be ammo for an early breech loader, such as an 1863 Sharps (or similar rifle)? The 1863 used a nitrated paper cartridge. The lever was dropped to expose the breech; the cartridge was inserted and when the breech closed, it 'sheared' off the back of the cartridge, exposing the powder. A percussion cap was then placed on the nipple, similar to a regular percussion muzzleloader, and the the gun was cocked and fired. The nitrated paper burned quickly, and then the process was repeated.

Just a guess....here is more on the sharps.

http://www.shilohrifle.com/

[skeet]

That was my first guess too. But I am certain this din't shear off.. Too heavy for that. and if I remember right they were somewhat tapered.. I have seen a picture of somethig like this but don't remember where. Probably an old American Rifleman mag or whatever.

[Rapier]

Skeet,
The only gun that I could think of, as a class, that would use a cartridge like that would be a pin or needle fire rifle. The primer is inside the cartridge and struck by a "needle" firing pin going into the paper cartridge. Actually the primer is at the rear of the bullet.

I do believe that is what you have.

The Belgians had a bolt action rifle that shot a paper cartridge that is very similar in appearance.
Best,
Ed