Original U.S. WWII M1942 Experimental Blue Porcelain Enamel Canteen Cup by Landers, Frary & Clark - Dated 1942

Original Item: Only One Available. 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 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.

This cup is in fair condition but has some heavy oxidation on the rim as shown, and some moderate chips in the porcelain enamel. The folding handle is also oxidized but it is faintly marked with U.S. / L.F.&C. / 1942.

Overall this is a great canteen cup with rare blue enamel, ready to add to your collection and display!