Original Item: Only One Available. Now this is a rare beauty! We have only been able to offer high quality reproductions and partial splatter masks, but never an original COMPLETE one! This is a wonderful example and shows signs of faithful use and is offered without any significant damage other than the usual stitching loss, which is expected on items like this.
Constructed from steel plate covered in leather, hand sewn, with slotted eyepieces for protection as well as visibility. The bottom is fitted with a chainmail mouth and chin guard, secured to larger rings on the “mask” and also hanging down from the sides. The piece is secured to the tanker’s head by two cotton tie straps located to the rear of the neck. Beautifully constructed.
These facemasks were one of the first innovations to help protect the crew for shrapnel flying around inside the tank. The war unexpectedly ended in November 1918, with the overthrow of the Kaiser. Even the Americans had estimated the wars duration to last until 1921 so many excesses in all types of gear resulted.
A lovely item that comes more than ready for display.