Original U.S. WWII Experimental Ethocel Plastic Canteen & M1942 Black Porcelain Enamel Canteen

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fantastic set of two experimental U.S. WWII canteens, difficult to find on their own. 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 & enamel for canteens.

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 and matching enameled canteen cup.

The black enamel canteen is in good condition with minor chipping to the finish. The cap is retained as well as the chain. It is stamped U.S. / REP / 1942 on the bottom in white ink.

The experimental Ethylcellulose Canteen is in good service-used condition with staining to the exterior and some to the interior. The cap is retained as well as the chain. The canteen is marked on the bottom U.S. / 1944. 

A great set of experimental canteens, ready for further research and display.