WWII U.S. M1942 Black Porcelain Enamel Canteen with USMC P1941 3rd Pattern Cover by REP Co. (1942)

Description

This is an original and rather uncommon WWII U.S. M1942 black porcelain enamel canteen with its original P1941 3rd pattern USMC cover. The canteen was manufactured in 1942 by Republic Stamping and Enameling Co. of Canton, Ohio. Due to aluminum shortages, alternative material was sought for canteens. Among those considered was lower quality metals finished in porcelain enamel. They were not well received by troops, though. When the canteen was dented, small chips of enamel would flake off, contaminating the water inside. As a result, most enamel canteens were removed from service, making them quite rare today. Its black bakelite plastic cap is missing its cork, however, it is marked inside with a stylized "S" and mold number of "79". The unmarked canvas cover is a 3rd pattern variation with "dog ear" cross closure flaps.

Provenance

Personal Collection of Chelius Carter

Condition Report

This canteen is in good condition, with most of its enamel finish still intact.