Original Item. Only One Available. This is a German pre-WWII aluminum-alloy double Tellermine transport carrier, dated 1938 and bearing markings for the Tellermine 43 "Pilz" anti-tank mine. This specialized carrying case was designed to hold two Tellerminen, providing a practical means of transporting these heavy explosive devices. [13" x 13" x 9 1/4", 11.75 lbs.]

The carrier is constructed from a substantial aluminum-alloy framework with steel fittings, featuring two hinged outer panels, each with a pair of large circular openings. Both panels are secured by metal retaining latches along the upper edges, while the interior incorporates reinforced supports and separate compartments for the mines. A curved tubular carrying handle is fitted across the upper portion.

Both outer panels bear the prominent white-stenciled designation:

2 T.Mi.(Pilz)43

This identifies the carrier's intended contents as two Tellerminen Pilz 43, the German Model 1943 "Mushroom" anti-tank mines. Of additional interest is an impressed 1938 date accompanied by a small emblem above it. The date predates the introduction of the Tellermine 43, indicating that the carrier itself belongs to an earlier manufacturing period and was subsequently marked for the later mine pattern.

Condition is good overall, with considerable wear from age, handling, and storage. The dark painted finish shows widespread scratches, abrasions, surface irregularities, and scattered areas of paint loss, particularly around the edges and exposed fittings. There is some minor deformation along the metal edges, together with accumulated dirt and dust within the interior. The framework remains substantially intact, retaining its carrying handle, hinged panels, and latch assemblies. The white identification stencils remain clearly legible, as does the impressed date.

Historical Context

The Tellermine, literally translated as "plate mine," was one of the German military's principal anti-tank weapons during WWII. These circular, pressure-activated mines were developed to damage or disable armored vehicles, primarily by detonating beneath their tracks or wheels. Several models entered service during the 1930s and 1940s, and Tellerminen became an important component of German defensive operations.

The weight and construction of these mines required dedicated transportation equipment. German double Tellermine carriers were designed to accommodate two mines within a single protective metal framework. The aluminum-alloy construction helped limit the weight of the carrier, while its internal supports kept the mines separated and secured during transportation. The hinged outer panels allowed access to each compartment, and the upper handle provided a convenient means of carrying the assembled load. By the early years of WWII, this type of carrier was already part of German mine-handling equipment.

The Tellermine 43, officially designated T.Mi. Pilz 43, was introduced in 1943 as a simplified development of the earlier Tellermine 42. Its German nickname Pilz, meaning "mushroom," referred to the distinctive raised, stepped pressure cover fitted over the mine's central ignition mechanism. This cover was one of the principal identifying characteristics of the pattern.

The Tellermine 43 had a circular steel body measuring approximately 12.3 inches [31.2 cm] in diameter and weighed approximately 17 pounds [7.7 kg] when filled. Its main explosive charge generally consisted of amatol, while the central pressure mechanism commonly employed the T.Mi.Z.42 igniter. The mine also incorporated provisions for additional ignition devices, which could be employed as anti-handling measures.

The introduction of the Tellermine 43 reflected Germany's increasing emphasis on simplified ordnance production during the later stages of WWII. With military manufacturing under growing pressure, designs that reduced manufacturing complexity while retaining their intended effectiveness became increasingly important. The Tellermine 43 remained in German service through the end of the war.

German Pioniere, or combat engineers, were among the principal personnel responsible for laying minefields, constructing defensive obstacles, and preparing demolitions. Tellerminen were employed extensively in anti-tank minefields, roadblocks, and defensive positions, where they could impede enemy armored advances and restrict movement through strategically important areas. As German forces increasingly adopted defensive positions during the later war years, mine warfare assumed greater importance across multiple fronts.