Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice original German Deutsches Afrikakorps (DAK) laminated wood canteen (Tropen Feldflasche), often referred to as the “coconut” canteen, due to its unusual appearance. These are constructed of pressed laminated wood over an aluminum body, sometimes secured by rayon straps. This is a Pre-War example, equipped with a leather harness, as opposed to the usual tropical web. The Heinrich Ritter company produced this before, during, and after the war, using different markings.
The compressed wood laminate is in very good condition, with no major cracks or defects. Comes complete with a postwar original leather carrying harness and its leather strap around the neck, which are both in very good condition. The rear belt attachment buckle on the harness is painted in Heer Green and is maker marked Patent / Ritter. Only the leather harness is a postwar replacement all other parts are WWII or earlier.
Canteen features the correct aluminum core and an original early bakelite cap, which still has the correct rubber seal. The back of the canteen is clearly marked:
Ritter
Alfurit
D.R.P. a.
The maker marking on this indicates pre-wwii manufacture by Heinrich Ritter of Esslingen. The other markings indicate that it is a registered design with the German trademark office. The bakelite cap does not have a date we can see, but it may have mold markings under the washer, however we were not able to remove it.
The included aluminum cup is also in very good condition, with black paint on the outside. The cup the expected small dents from use, as well as wear to the finish, but none of the large dents we usually see. The cup is marked SKN 38, made during the pre-war period.
Condition overall is very good, showing light use. The leather is supple with no major issues, and all the buckles are intact and work. The leather is however torn around the grommet that secures the screw cap. Otherwise, the finish is great, and it has a great gently used look.
This is a great and rare Afrika Korps canteen with cup. A fine addition to any collection.