When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
For your consideration, I present a 100% original, structurally sound WWII German M31 \"Coconut\" Tropical Canteen (Kokosnuss Feldflasche). This textbook example is a highly sought-after variant typically issued to the Deutsches Afrikakorps (DAK) and forces serving on the Southern Fronts.
Item Key Details:
Manufacturer / Date: Clearly stamped on the body under the upper vertical strap with a crisp circular maker mark: H.R.E. 42, indicating production by Heinrich Ritter, Esslingen in 1942.
Patent Markings: The body is beautifully stamped with D.R.G.M. (Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster) and D.R.P. ang. (Deutsches Reichspatent angemeldet).Casing: The distinctive pressed wood-fiber shell is in solid vintage condition with no major splits or structural failures, retaining its wonderful original dark brown finish.
Harness & Straps: Complete with its original, authentic canvas webbing straps. The fabric remains intact with no rotted areas or major fraying. The metal snap buttons and harness hardware show an honest, unmanipulated rusted patina that serious collectors look for.
Cap: Features the original fluted black bakelite screw cap in great structural shape—no cracks, chips, or stripped threads.
Cup: Includes an early-pattern aluminum canteen cup with twin folding wire handles. The cup retains a great portion of its original field-grey/black paint coating, displaying classic, authentic combat-worn chipping that reveals the bare aluminum beneath.
Condition Report:
This is an honest, untouched \"attic-found\" piece of history. It is being sold in as-found condition with natural dirt, dust, and metal oxidation. No cleaning or restoration attempts have been made to preserve its original historical value. Please review all high-resolution photos carefully to judge the aesthetic condition for yourself before offerding.
100% Guaranteed Original.
Offers and questions always welcome!
Thanks for looking!
