World War II Militaria and Field Equipment (1939-1945)

 A piece of history with a personal story! Up for sale is a complete, original US Army mess kit from World War II. The set includes the iconic two-piece "Meat Can" clearly stamped "U.S. / E.A. CO. / 1943". The absolute highlight is the hand-engraved soldier's name, "Don J. Stanford", on the lid (Trench Art). It comes complete with a period 3-piece stainless steel cutlery set (Wallco) and a rare, custom leather sheath for the knife blade. Please note: the long seam on the leather sheath is unstitched/ripped. Perfect collector condition with honest combat patina.

A true battle veteran with a unique story! Up for sale is a genuine US WWI ammunition pouch for Colt 1911 pistol magazines, dated 1918 (made by L.C.C. & CO.). This piece features a fantastic, unusual field modification/repair: A rugged, hand-sewn canvas band, made of contrasting white/natural material, has been added around the mouth of the pouch to reinforce the opening. This modification, likely performed in the field during WWII, makes this a 100% unique item with incredible provenance. In well-used, "salty" combat-condition.

The holy grail for restorers and collectors of German combat helmets! Up for sale is an absolutely pristine, unissued leather chinstrap from the very end of WWII. Detailed research confirms the manufacturer as C. Otto Gehrckens from Pinneberg. The specific "RFNr." marking allows us to date this piece with extreme precision to the narrow window between late 1944 and May 1945. This is a flawless New Old Stock (NOS) item featuring late-war steel hardware, making it the perfect finishing touch for a late-war Quist M40 or depot-assembled M42 helmet.

A prime artifact for US Airborne collectors! Up for sale is an original US Army M1 helmet liner manufactured by Firestone. Originally an infantry liner, it underwent an official factory-level conversion into an M1C Airborne liner (Late WWII / Korean War era). While widely known in the collecting community as "Rigger modified," this is a certified factory retrofit with 'A' straps professionally installed under the A-washers. It is beautifully personalized with the hand-painted name "HERMAN CURRY" and ASN.

Classic vintage US military-style belt lantern by Justrite Mfg. Co. Features a folding head and heavy-duty belt clip. Finished in Olive Drab. Excellent display condition, functionality untested.

Rare vintage US explosion-proof safety flashlight. Made of heavy-duty black Tuffite (bakelite). Features a brass Bureau of Mines approval tag and a metal hanger. Untested collector's item.

Genuine World War II US Army "Attachment, Cargo, Packboard". Designed to lash onto the plywood packboard to carry loose gear. Made of heavy-duty treated cotton duck (impregnated). Often used by Medics and Mountain troops. Used vintage condition with patina.

Rare early production US M3 Fighting Knife by Kinfolks Inc. Blade stamped "U.S. M3 KINFOLKSINC 1943". Paired with a correct early "B.M.CO" M8 scabbard (no wire hook). Authentic combat carried condition.

Scarce WWII US M3 Fighting Knife by Kinfolks. Desirable "Blade Marked" early production. Includes an excellent condition M6 leather scabbard by Viner Bros (1943).

A rare early variation of the iconic US M3 fighting knife. Made by Camillus in 1943 with the desirable blade marking. Original WWII condition with M8 scabbard.

Own a tangible piece of World War II history! Up for sale is a genuine U.S. Army canvas shelter half clearly dated 1945. What makes this piece exceptional is its provenance: it is boldly named to its original owner, "Paul Petersen", complete with his home address in Whittier, California, and his unit "TR. 942". This item has a fantastic "salty" combat look, showing stains, period field repairs, and one open seam. A perfect research project and display piece for serious WWII collectors.

Used USMC ponchos in Frogskin camouflage. The material is no longer soft. The ponchos have minor abrasions.

Genuine World War II era M1916 holster for the .45 caliber pistol. Clearly dated 1944. Embossed "US" flap. Good used condition with authentic patina.

A classic piece of WWII aviation survival gear: The US Navy Mark 1 Survival Knife, famously nicknamed the "Giant Jackknife" due to its massive 6-inch closed length. Manufactured by COLONIAL PROV. R.I., this knife was issued to pilots and aircrew as part of the C-1 Survival Vest. It features a large clip-point blade and a rugged saw blade specifically designed to cut through Plexiglas canopies or aircraft aluminum skin. The knife is in nice vintage condition.

A superb example of the WWII Cattaraugus 225Q Knife, often referred to as the "Quartermaster" knife. Built heavier and stronger than the standard Ka-Bar, the 225Q was favored by commando units for its durability. It features a thick 6-inch blade clearly stamped Cattaraugus 225Q and a stacked leather washer handle. The signature feature is the heavy, waffle-patterned steel pommel, designed to be used as a hammer for opening crates. Comes with a period leather sheath.

A superb example of the WWII US Navy Mark 1 Knife, manufactured by Colonial. This is the desirable variant featuring a molded black polymer handle, designed to withstand the harsh saltwater environment better than traditional leather washers. The blade is in excellent condition, unsharpened, retaining its original factory edge and finish. Clearly stamped "U.S.N." on the ricasso and "MARK 1 / COLONIAL" on the reverse. Includes the correct USN MK 1 composition hard scabbard.

Lightly used M-1944 braces. Sand colour. Nice condition without damage.

Rare original World War II era can of Cap Sealing Compound by E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. Used by Combat Engineers to waterproof blasting cap and fuse connections. Full contents with mint label.

Genuine WWII rubberized carrier for the Assault Gas Mask (Bag M7). Essential D-Day gear. Rubber remains soft and pliable. Snaps intact. Authentic patina with minor rust stains.

The definitive helmet of the early Second World War: The US M1917A1, famously known as the "Kelly Helmet". Worn by GIs and Marines during the defense of the Philippines, Wake Island, and Pearl Harbor. This is the transition model featuring the upgraded leather liner and web chinstrap. The item is in used but very nice condition, retaining its original texture and a healthy leather liner.

The most comprehensive illustrated guide to U.S. Navy awards and insignia from WWII to present. Hardcover. Each medal colorfully illustrated with history. Condition: Brand New.

An incredible piece of history with specific provenance: Original WWII US M1916 Pistol Holster, dated 1944 and made by Warren Leather Goods Co.. This item was found in the Pilsen (Plzeň) area of the Czech Republic, directly linking it to the liberation of Western Bohemia by General Patton's 3rd Army in May 1945. The holster is in excellent condition with rich russet color and intact stitching. Includes the original M1917 Pistol Lanyard.

A genuine US Military shelter half (pup tent half). This is an interesting "two-tone" production variant made from two noticeably different shades of olive drab canvas. Includes attached roll straps, buttons, and grommets. True field-used "salty" condition featuring a hand-drawn name "DRIFTER", along with some small holes and a tear. Stamps are faded.

Museum-grade WWII Jungle Suit (One Piece Coveralls) in Frogskin camouflage. Manufactured by Sweet-Orr, dated Feb 19, 1943. Complete with rare internal suspenders. Size 40R. Mint/Unissued condition.

Rare USMC experimental vest with ballistic or shrapnel protection and DORON plates. Size M. Lightly used stock condition.

This type of vest is one of the test pieces produced during WWII. While the US. Army preferred to use metal plates, the USN and USMC tested the DORON material.

The material was named after Gen. G. F. Doriot, who commanded the Research and Development Branch, Office of the Quartermaster General.

A distinctive and desirable variation of World War II airborne insignia: A background trimming (oval) for the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment (11th Airborne Division) featuring integral embroidered Jump Wings. Unlike standard ovals used with pinned metal badges, this fully embroidered version was favored for comfort and a streamlined look on tropical uniforms in the Pacific Theater. It passes the UV light test (does not glow) and features a pristine "Snowy Back"reverse.

A guaranteed original World War II era shoulder sleeve insignia for the 17th Airborne Division ("Golden Talon"). This is a two-piece set featuring the division patch and the separate AIRBORNE tab, which is historically correct for the era. Authenticity is confirmed by the UV light test (does not glow), indicating vintage cotton construction suitable for the 1940s. The reverse features the desirable "Snowy Back" embroidery.

A scarce and highly desirable World War II original: The regimental patch for the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment (511th PIR), part of the 11th Airborne Division ("The Angels"). Unlike the common ETO patches, insignia from the Pacific Theater (PTO) are much harder to find. This patch features the iconic "Angel" paratrooper design. It passes the UV light test (does not glow) and features the classic "Snowy Back" reverse and Cut Edge construction. Includes the AIRBORNE tab.

A highly collectible "Theater Made" patch from the Occupation of Japan (1945-1950) era. This insignia belongs to the 187th Parachute Glider Infantry Regiment (187th PGIR) of the 11th Airborne Division. It features the unit's distinctive mascot under a parachute on a yellow felt base, a hallmark of Japanese production for US troops. This is the era when the unit earned its famous nickname "Rakkasans" (falling down umbrella men).

Detailed pictorial guide to Wehrmacht uniforms. Authors Cardona & Sanchez. Czech language edition. Excellent reference photos of stamps and markings. Condition: New.

The definitive reference guide by Michael S. Breuninger (Schiffer Military History). Comprehensive study of US Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps survival gear from WWII through the modern era. Features detailed photos of survival vests, life rafts, radios, and kit contents. Essential for identification.

A Holy Grail for WWII collectors: Original US Army issue Camouflage HBT Trousers. Significantly rarer than their USMC counterparts, these were famously issued to Army units (like the 2nd Armored) during Operation Cobra in Normandy and saw limited use in the Pacific. Condition is NOS (New Old Stock) – crisp and unissued. Rare size 34x33.

Authentic US Marine Corps (USMC) dining fork, originating from the WWII or Korean War era. These heavy-duty utensils were standard issue for Marine Corps Mess Halls. The handle features a bold U.S.M.C. stamp on the obverse. The reverse is marked MADE IN U.S.A. and E.P. STEEL, indicating a durable steel core with electro-plated silver finish. A fantastic accessory for reenactors or a durable piece of history for camping. Price is for 1 fork.

An authentic mid-century vintage hunting/utility knife by the legendary Ka-Bar brand (Olean, N.Y.). This 1940s commercial model features a 6-inch polished blade, a stacked leather handle with distinct brown plastic spacers, and its original leather scabbard. Knives like this were popular private purchase items for GIs during WWII. Honest field-used condition.

An authentic World War II era U.S. Navy Mark 1 utility knife manufactured by Colonial Knife Co. Features the distinct, rot-resistant black "Tenite" plastic handle issued for the Pacific theater. Complete with its original fiberglass/resin scabbard by BM Co. Exhibits honest field wear, sharpening, and a deep vintage patina.

A genuine World War II era U.S. Army Signal Corps visual communication flag kit. Used for semaphore or wig-wag signalling on the battlefield. The set includes the original printed canvas carrying case, two wooden poles, and two red/white diagonally split flags. Unissued New Old Stock (NOS) condition, though the white fabric shows typical age-related storage stains (foxing).

Genuine WWII US Marine Corps M1941 Pack System. Includes upper Haversack and lower Knapsack (Type II). Unmarked canvas with original 1945 paper cutter's tag. Mint / Unissued condition.

Genuine World War II shoulder sleeve insignia for the North African Theater of Operations (NATOUSA). Moorish Arch design. UV Negative tested. Features "scrapbook residue" on the reverse, indicating authentic veteran provenance.

Guaranteed original World War II Shoulder Sleeve Insignia of the Eighth United States Army. Famous for the Philippines Campaign. Red octagon design. Vintage Cut Edge construction. Mint / Unissued condition.

Authentic World War II US Army shoulder patch. 36th Infantry Division ("Texas"). Standard "Cut Edge" construction typical of the era. Tested: Does NOT glow under UV light (guaranteed vintage materials). Excellent condition."

Genuine US Navy rating badge for Salvage Diver. Features the iconic Mark V diving helmet with "S" insignia. White square patch with blue embroidery. Unissued condition.

Authentic World War II US Army Air Forces shoulder sleeve insignia. Classic "Hap Arnold" winged star design. Fully embroidered with cut edge. Original vintage condition.

Authentic 1941 pocket guide specifically for US Army insignia and decorations. Features over 140 color illustrations of shoulder sleeve insignia (SSI), branch marks, and medals. Good vintage condition..

A pristine World War II original shoulder sleeve insignia for the US Airborne Command. This iconic patch was worn by paratroopers and glidermen during their initial training phases before being assigned to combat divisions like the 82nd or 101st. The design features the dual imagery of a glider and a parachute on a red shield. Authenticated by its Cut Edgeconstruction and the classic "Snowy Back" white bobbin thread on the reverse.

Genuine US Military issue wire mesh splint (Cramer style). Standard issue for field medics from WWII through Vietnam. Galvanized steel wire, flexible and rollable. Excellent condition for medic bag displays.

Original unused USMC Paramarines parachute blouse - Uniform, utility, HBT, Camouflage (Parachutist). Size 38. The blouse was worn under a second type (camouflage) parachute coat. The fabric has two different shades of material on the back see photos.

Authentic World War I era Creagh-Osborne Marching Compass, Mark VII Mod. E. Manufactured by the famous Sperry Gyroscope Co., Brooklyn. Stamped U.S. E.D. (Engineer Department). Good vintage condition with original leather carrying case.

The rarest standard-issue configuration of the US M1 Helmet: A McCord Fixed Bale shell paired with a genuine Hawley "Paper" Fiber Liner. This liner features the ultra-rare Rayon suspension (artificial silk), used only during the earliest stage of the war. The steel shell is stamped 370D, dating it to approximately mid-1942.

Genuine US Marine Corps P44 Utility Cover. Made of Herringbone Twill (HBT) fabric. Features the distinct wider visor. Faded EGA stencil on front. Size 7. Authentic vintage condition with wear on the bill.

Used USMC Sage Green HBT Coverall from the first contract. This type of jumpsuit was also issued by the Paramarines and was worn with the first type of parachute paramarines jacket. The jumpsuit is used in several places is the name of the original owner. The size label is missing. Size for a figure of approximately 190cm.

Genuine World War II US Army "I Troop Carrier Command" shoulder sleeve insignia with Airborne tab. Features Glider and Parachute design. Does not glow under UV light (Cotton construction). Mint condition.

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Dive into the gritty origins of the world's most elite maritime commando unit. This book chronicles the evolution from WWII OSS divers and UDT "Frogmen" through the Korean War, culminating in the formation of the Navy SEALs and their early Vietnam deployments. Packed with first-hand veteran interviews and an incredible array of historical photographs. Paperback binding. Language: English.

Very nice Jungle Pack backpack in green. The backpack is very little used. On the back is the name and personal number of the original owner.

Unique first type of paratrooper jacket for USMC Paramarines in green. This is a second production series piece with a knife pocket. The coat is in multi-used condition. Size is Small. Zippers are functional. Jacket has multiple repairs and stains see photo.

The 1st Parachute Battalion was attached to the 1st Marine Division for the invasion of Guadalcanal. On 7 August 1942 the unit

Genuine World War II era Captain (O-3) rank bars for the US Marine Corps. Classic "Pin Back" construction suitable for vintage service greens. Features the distinctive USMC "fluted" or textured surface design. Silver-plated with authentic patina.

Genuine World War II US Marine Corps P1944 Utility Trousers. "Modified" version with belt loops. Frogskin camouflage. Size 36. Rare unissued condition.

A genuine WWII/Korean War era US Navy cold-weather deck vest. Features a rugged olive drab cotton canvas shell, an incredibly warm alpaca/wool pile lining, and a period-correct brass CONMAR zipper. Estimated size Small. Exhibits authentic "salty" vintage character with minor paint/oil spots, but remains structurally solid.

US Army 618th Engineer Company (Airborne).

Genuine World War II era sleeve patch for the Meritorious Unit Commendation (MUC). Rare variety featuring the numeral "2" indicating a second award. Gold laurel wreath embroidered on Olive Drab square. Vintage used condition.

Guaranteed original World War II Shoulder Sleeve Insignia of the Seventh United States Army. Tested UV Negative (does not glow), confirming pre-1945 manufacture. Classic "Seven Steps to Hell" design. Cut Edge construction.

Authentic 48-Star United States Flag (Grid Pattern). Issued between 1912-1959. Heavy cotton bunting with sewn stripes. Size approx. 220x126cm. Features distinct "battle worn" look with field-repaired grommets. Historical original.

The set consists of Overseas Cap, jacket and trousers. All with year of production 1942. Boat is size 7 1/4. Jacket does not show size, but fits approximately a size Small. Pants are in unused condition with the stock tag still attached. The label says Size - 16, Waist 34, Height 5-8.

"Aussie made" uniforms were very popular with members of the First Marine Division in the early part of the war when there were not enough US made uniforms.

A stunning, near-mint example of the iconic WWII US Army M1911 Campaign Hat (often called the Montana Peak or Smokey Bear hat). The internal leather sweatband features crisp, legible markings dating it to 1944 (Contract RS-1944, PQMD). It comes rigged with the yellow/gold Cavalry branch cord and a US Army Officer's cap device. Finding felt hats of this age without moth damage or deformation is extremely rare. Size: 7 1/8.

A rare, unissued World War II era U.S. Navy Binocular Blinker (Tube Type, Spec. 17B15). This specialized signaling device was designed to mount directly onto standard issue 6x30 and 7x50 binoculars for secure, directional Morse code communication between ships. Comes in its original cardboard box with printed instructions. Sold as an untested display collectible.

An incredible, authentic World War II era PAL RH-36 utility/combat knife. The absolute centerpiece of this item is the original leather sheath, heavily customized with GI "Trench Art". Hand-tooled by the soldier, it features the moniker "Billy THE Greek", his hometown "PROVIDENCE R. I.", and "Greetings from" with a drawing of a wolf on the back. Stacked leather handle. True salty history.

Genuine WWII US "Substitute Standard" Black Enamel Canteen. Produced 1942 to conserve aluminum. Includes canvas cover with stencil #591. Authentic "salty" condition with enamel chipping.

A highly desirable Early WWII M1 Helmet configuration. The steel shell features the classic Fixed Bale loops and Front Seam stainless steel rim, dating it to the early war production blocks. The liner (made by IMP) is finished in a high-gloss parade lacquer and adorned with the decals of the 26th "Yankee" Infantry Division and the 101st Infantry Regiment.

Genuine US Military white cartridge belt for the M1 Garand rifle. Ceremonial / Military Police (MP) issue. Features 10 pockets and contrasting black metal hardware. Unissued "New Old Stock" condition showing minor storage age..

Scarce early WWII US Marine Corps rubberized poncho in Olive Drab. Dated January 20, 1942. Made by Marathon Rubber Products. Pre-dates camouflage versions. Material is stiff due to age. One snap missing.

Authentic WWII accessory set for the M1 Garand grenade launcher system. Includes the M1 Grenade Projection Adapter (dated 1943), M15 Sight with 1944 pouch, and the essential rubber recoil boot. Excellent collector's condition.

An authentic collector's lot of vintage US military medical supplies, perfect for filling out a combat medic's bag display. Includes a paper-wrapped tourniquet, an original "Surgitube" gauze envelope, an early tightly-rolled cotton bandage, and a set of minor surgical field tools in a pouch. Sold strictly for collectible, display, and reenactment purposes only.

A highly sought-after reference book, "OSS Special Weapons & Equipment: Spy Devices of WWII" by intelligence historian H. Keith Melton. This comprehensive guide details the clandestine weaponry and covert gear used by the Office of Strategic Services during WWII. Packed with technical diagrams and photos. English language. Very good used condition.

Paratrooper blouse for USMC "Paramarines". This is the second type of camouflage smock, based on the parachute jacket for the Fallschirmjäger. Sometimes this type is referred to as the third type (the first was not camouflaged). The cut of the pockets is unified. The jacket has 4 large inner pockets. Very nice, only lightly used piece with no damage. The colours are rich. All buttons are functional and none are missing. Size markings are not visible but correspond roughly to size Medium. This particular piece is photographed in the Geronimo publication!: U.S. Airborne Uniforms, Insignia & Equipment in World War II (Schiffer Military History). A dedication from the book's author, Bill Rentz, is included with the smock.

Rare box of original World War II aircraft identification slides. Marked "Property of U.S. Army Air Forces". Features silhouettes of Axis and Allied planes (Messerschmitt, Wildcat, etc.).

An authentic, combat-used U.S. Military M1916 leather holster for the Colt M1911/1911A1 .45 caliber pistol. This piece features incredible "trench modifications": the M1910 wire belt hanger has been crudely but effectively re-stitched in the field, and two vertical slits were cut to accommodate a trouser belt. Inner flap features faded maker marks and the stencil "G.B.S". A true "salty" piece of GI history.

An exceptionally well-preserved U.S. Military M4 bayonet designed for the M1 Carbine (WWII/Korean War era). This is the highly desirable early production model featuring the stacked leather handle. Manufactured by Utica Cutlery Co. (Ordnance flaming bomb marked). Includes the correct original M8A1 fiberglass scabbard by B.M. Co. The blade retains most of its original parkerized finish. Top collector quality..

Genuine US Army Corps of Engineers Wrist Compass. Made by Superior Magneto Corp. WWII/Korea era. Unissued condition with original long canvas strap.

An extremely sought-after, authentic World War II U.S. Marine Corps P-1944 (P-44) combat utility jacket. Made of rugged Herringbone Twill (HBT) cotton. Features the iconic large internal side-entry pockets, inner gas flap, blackened metal USMC buttons, and a crisp EGA pocket stencil. Boasts a beautiful field-worn "salty" patina. Very rare, highly wearable large size (approx 50" chest).

Genuine World War II US Marine Corps P1941 Herringbone Twill trousers. Features "U.S. Marine Corps" donut buttons. Size 34. Structurally excellent condition with storage rust stains.