Original Japanese WWII U.S. Intelligence Officer Captured Medical Oxygen Inhaler Apparatus for Field Hospital in Original Case with Capture Paper

Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. This is a fantastic WWII American-captured piece of Japanese medical equipment, the first of its kind we have ever seen, and likely the last. This Japanese medical oxygen inhaler apparatus was used in Japanese field hospitals during the war, and was captured by an American Lieutenant Colonel serving with an Intelligence Group of the Far East Air Force. The set comes in its original case along with the original capture paper, but the paper is so deteriorated that we cannot read the officer’s name or service number. We can however see that he lists the contents of the capture as 1 Jap Oxygen Tester.

The case, which measures 13½ x 7¾ x 6¼”, originally had the capture paper attached to the lid, but it came off long ago and was thankfully preserved in a riker case. The lid still retains most of the 15 stamps attached for postage to the United States, some of which are coming off, and some Japanese Kanji characters under this. There is a data plate to the front with serial number 20045 and maker Yanagi Seisakusho. The opening latch still works well.

The interior lid still retains the contents lists, listing the device as Oxygen Inhaler (Type 3). It consists of the Main Body (with Power Meter), one flowmeter set, one mask, disassembly tools, rubber tube, product storage box, backing, elastic bands for mask, beinyuu, 2 sets of dustproof gear, and product safety. These are not exact translations but give a good idea of the original contents. The tester still retains an attached caution tag alerting users to what precautions should be taken.

The set is certainly missing a few pieces including the rubber tube which likely dried out long ago. The interior had the carrying handle that was originally attached to the front, but broke off.

A great set for display with many pieces retained. Comes ready for further research and display!