The .470 Nitro Express, introduced around 1907 is attributed to Joseph Lang and is another of the standard big game calibres of the British gun trade that was adopted by a large number of rifle makers. It was developed as a substitute for the .450 which was banned in India and the Sudan for a number of years. It was popular with the elephant hunters of the day and still enjoys a great reputation. 

This text is based on information from “Cartridges of the World”, Hodgdon reloading manual, the cartridge designer and/or own resources.