December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 135:
Description
A classic and well-preserved artifact of the Imperial Japanese Army IJA , this is an original World War II issue canteen, or sui-to, complete with its leather carrying strap. This type of canteen was standard issue to Japanese ground forces throughout the war. It features a rounded metal body, likely aluminum, fully encased in a protective and insulating olive drab felt or wool cover. The cover shows honest field wear and patina, consistent with use in harsh Pacific or Asian campaigns, and is secured by small metal hooks and loops. Noteworthy on this example are the hand-stitched Japanese characters kanji on the front felt cover, which are often unit or soldier identification marks, adding unique historical provenance. The canteen is topped with a metal neck and cap, which retains some of its original white or light-colored paint finish. The original, dark brown leather carrying strap is present, showing age and cracking typical of period leather that has seen field service. The overall condition and the presence of the soldier-applied markings make this a compelling and highly displayable piece of Japanese WWII militaria.
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