Original U.S. WWII Rare M1942 Black Porcelain Enamel Canteen With Matching Cup in Named 3rd Pattern USMC Carrier - Dated 1942
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Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptional example of a well-used USMC "Rabbit Ears" 3rd Model Canteen Cover. This is the 3rd version of the carrier, which is identical to the 4th version, except that there is no "drain hole" in the bottom of the carrier. Housed inside of this really nice example is an equally attractive and rare M1942 Black Porcelain Enamel Canteen With Porcelain Enamel Cup, both in very good condition. The cup is dated 1942.
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.
The back of the cover is marked WALSH, but this is not identifiable due to the commonality of the name. The canteen shows heavy chipping in the enamel, especially along the bottom edge, and as a result the maker’s ink stamp is now gone.
The cup is in fair condition but has some very oxidation on the rim and the handle as shown, and some minor chips in the porcelain enamel across the cup. The folding handle is very heavily oxidized but it is faintly marked with U.S. / L.F.&C. / 1942.
A great set ready for further research and display.
- This product is available for international shipping.
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