Original Item: One-of-a-kind. This is a genuine WWII issue German Aluminum Model 1931 Canteen, which was turned into a wonderful presentation piece. We have not been able to find much on these, and we do not know whether the brass presentation plaque on this canteen was added during the war or after. It looks to have possibly been an item that could be purchased and then personalized to the recipient in recognition of service during wartime, probably on the home front. Definitely some interesting research potential here.
The canteen itself is a standard aluminum M-31, which is maker marked and dated HGF 41, a known maker marking on these canteens that has not been identified. On the rear of the canteen is the presentation plaque, which has an NSDAP swas (hook cross) on the top:
THIS N**I TROPHY
CAPTURED BY U.S. TROOPS IN
WORLD WAR III
AWARDED TO
E. C. WHITE
FOR
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
BY
U.S. TREASURY DEPT.
WAYNE COUNTY RETAILERS
WAR FINANCE DIVISION
The plaque is secured by four brass screws, one at each corner, and is etched oxidized brass. A very interesting WWII Home Front item, ripe for further research!