M17 Ledermaske named to soldier Rottig.

[Digger1915]

The feldgrau can is in nice condition with signs of wear such as chipping etc blending in with the overall patina. Named to soldier Rottig 3 times; once on the lid, once on the can strap marked faintly on a label, and lastly on the mask itself also on label. Inside the can lid still sits a set of spare lenses with instruction for use.

The ledermaske in the can has been there for 2 years since I purchased it and I’m hesitant to remove it as it is a bit of a time capsule piece in its current state. So for the purpose of this shoot I’ve photographed it with another example that I also have in my Imperial Collection. This particular mask is in great overall condition and retains all parts including the chord. Pictured along with the items is a feldgrau buckle which looks to be unissued or to have had little use.

Digger

 

[Zebedeus]

Hi Digger, wonderful gas mask, in pristine condition. Congrats
Zeb

 

[Digger1915]

Hi Digger, wonderful gas mask, in pristine condition. Congrats
Zeb

Thanks Zeb. I’ve always tried to collect named items where possible. I think the German Army were the most prolific in terms of the naming their equipment in both World Wars.

 

[Stosstrupp]

Very nice maske congrats.

 

[Bobted]

Take it out I found a chinstrap in one once. A nice set. Rob

 

[John Josef]

Nice looking set Congratulations,

I'm still looking for the early Bavarian can it's the only piece I need to complete my collection should anyone know of one or want to part with one please let me know.

MFG John Josef

 

[Helmetz]

Very nice Andy, named items are the best, especially when researchable.

I found an interesting example among the items in a footlocker a bunch of years back, curiously it has very colorful ersatz straps. After getting it home and examine it several times a thought occurred to me. The thought was what were the possibilities of a mask exposed to poisonous gas during World War I and then put away being hazardous when opened a near century later? I had a good friend, I only say had because he’s passed, who did all of Stephen King’s medical and technical research for pretty much all his books. I posed the question to this friend.

After diligently researching for an answer, he told me all about the half-lives of each of the gases and that it was possible to suffer ill effects, especially if the container was sealed and not opened much since or aired out at some point. The odds may be slim, but it is still possible. We all realize the hazards of helmet liners and gas mask cans with asbestos in them, but I am unsure if anyone’s ever considered the possibility of long stored poisonous gas residue.

So, if finding an actual time capsule in an attic, cellar, or wherever, it's probably best to err on the side of caution and find nice outdoor spot before opening it. Might want to stand upwind or maybe even the use of a mask or respirator could be in order.

I certainly wouldn't recommend putting one on.