WW1 German M17 Gas Mask

WW1 German M17 Gas Mask

Code: 55398

SOLD

A wonderful example of the classic WW1 German M17 "Lederschutzmaske" Gas Mask in rare absolutely complete configuration. This well known leather-faced Gas Mask was first introduced for use by the German Army in 1917 and today of course it is much sought after as being one of the most evocative WW1 pieces. 


This example  is in very good condition. The leather to the Mask's body is soft, pliable, and un-punctured with the viewing lenses whole and unscratched. The sprung head and hanging straps atop the Mask are equally good being all there and again totally undamaged, every one is strong and functioning correctly. 

Finally, the original weight-bearing cord to the front of the Mask is still present. This most important item is usually lost as it is simply knotted on and indeed this is the first original example I've come across.

 The filter is dated 1917 and this too is in very good condition  since more often than not these are rusted right through due to the internal chemicals degrading. Here there are no  holes, with the field grey paint 95% present.

The Gas Mask Tin is original to the Mask and no less pleasing. It again has a majority of its field grey paint remaining, and once more it most unusually still has all its original "paper cloth" carrying straps . These are typically found to be lost or in shreds given the material's substance, this leading to often seen collector replacement. The original carrying straps on this Tin are not only all there, they are all amazingly undamaged and strong. 

Lastly  the spare lens compartment  inside  the lid is also complete, this still retaining its original compliment of dated twin replacement lenses in their original paper sachet.


A famous WW1 piece in an unparalleled untouched state which would prove most difficult to upgrade,