Original German WWII Afrikakorps Coconut Canteen With Cup by Heinrich Ritter and Harness – 1943 Dated Original Items

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.

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 gray and is maker marked Patent / Ritter, while the front strap buckle is marked D.R.P. ang / HRE 43. Canteen features the correct aluminum core and an original aluminum cap, which still has the correct rubber seal. The back of the canteen is clearly marked:

D.R.G.M.
H.R.E. 43
D.R.P. angm.
13

The maker marking on this indicates manufacture by Heinrich Ritter of Esslingen in 1943. The other markings indicate that it is a registered design with the German trademark office.

The included steel cup is also in very good condition, with green paint on the outside, and strangely enough, the red enamel on the inside is not present. The cup has the expected small dents from use, as well as wear, and there are a few areas of enamel loss inside.

Condition overall is very good, showing light use. The cotton web is in good shape with no fraying, and all the buckles are intact and work. This is a great and rare Afrika Korps canteen with cup. A fine addition to any collection.