Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptional example of a lightly used USMC "Rabbit Ears" 3rd Model Canteen Cover. Housed inside of this really nice example is an equally attractive and rare M1942 Black Porcelain Enamel Canteen With Matching Cup, both in excellent condition. The cover, canteen and cup are all dated 1942.
From 1943 onward, the most noticeable feature added to USMC canteen covers was the "dog ear" crossed flaps. This type of cover has a front seam, typical USMC high-mounted wire hooks, and a one-inch hole at the bottom with a stitched edge, giving it the appearance of a buttonhole. This hole would fit over the neck of the canteen and could be used as a funnel to collect water from spouted sources.
Early in World War II, aluminum was urgently needed for aircraft. Therefore, in 1942 stainless steel canteens were substituted for aluminum and alternative materials were investigated, such as plastic for canteens. Another idea for conserving the most valuable metals was to use a lower quality metal with a porcelain enameled coating.
The result was this, the M1942 Black Porcelain Enamel Canteen. Unfortunately, this "experiment" was not successful at all, and there were numerous complaints from the field, as the chipped enamel inside from a dent would result in water contamination, and overall the canteens were just not very resilient. They were quickly removed from service, and replaced by the standard aluminum canteens that everyone is familiar with today. They are very scarce on the market, especially with the original carrier and matching enameled canteen cup.
A great set ready for further research and display.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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