Original German WWII Afrikakorps Coconut Canteen with Cup and Harness by Heinrich Ritter – 1942 Dated Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a Fantastic 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.

The compressed wood laminate is in very good condition, with no major cracks or defects. Comes complete with the original DAK color cotton web 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 DAK green and is maker marked Patent / Ritter, while the front strap buckle is marked D.R.G.M.. Canteen features the correct aluminum core and an original brown bakelite cap, which still has the correct red rubber seal. The back of the canteen is clearly marked:

D.R.G.M.
H.R.E. 42
D.R.P. angm.
A

The maker marking on this indicates manufacture by Heinrich Ritter of Esslingen in 1942. The other markings indicate that it is a registered design with the German trademark office.

The included aluminum cup is also in very good condition, with green paint on the outside, and bare aluminum on the inside. The cup the expected small dents from use, but no major issues, just some paint loss around the bottom edge from wear. The cup is marked HRE 43, so this entire rig is from the same maker, Heinrich Ritter.

Condition overall is very good, but definitely used. There is some fraying in the cotton web, and the leather around the canteen neck is shrunken in place. Also, the strap that attaches to the cap has unfortunately rotted off at the fitting due to rust, a common issue.

This is a great and rare Afrika Korps canteen with cup. A fine addition to any collection.