The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2225:
Description
Trio of WWII German items:
1)This authentic WWII-era German Gebirgsjäger (Mountain Troop) rucksack is a classic example of rugged military engineering, crafted from heavy olive-drab canvas with robust leather reinforcement and trim. Featuring the characteristic large central pocket, side equipment loops, and integrated leather shoulder straps, this pack was designed for the grueling conditions of alpine warfare. The interior reveals a protective throat shroud and a leather-reinforced support patch, hallmarks of early-to-mid-war production. The canvas exhibits minimal field wear, including several small punctures, and field repairs, while the leather components show cracking, stiffness, and surface loss consistent with age and combat use; all buckles and hardware show a dark patina and some surface oxidation. H 20", W 18", D 4"
2) WWII German M43 Tragegestell Pack Frame
This is a notably well-preserved WWII-era German "Tragegestell" M43 pack frame, a specialized piece of equipment designed for mountain troops (Gebirgsjäger) and heavy weapons crews to transport bulky loads like ammunition boxes, mortars, or radio units. The frame is constructed from rounded tubular steel, retaining a significant amount of its original Ordnance Tan (Einheitsfarbe) factory paint. It features the characteristic integrated shelf at the base, heavy-duty chain linkages for securing loads, and the essential curved leather-padded lower back support designed to distribute weight across the soldier’s hips. The presence of multiple d-rings and attachment loops suggests it is ready for the addition of standard Y-straps. The metal shows honest age-related wear, including surface oxidation, paint loss at high-friction points, and some minor pitting, while the leather padding remains supple with typical darkening and minor cracking from field use. H 24", W 18", D 9".
3) WWII German Seilzuggerät 500kg Chest
This rugged, field-grey steel transport chest was designed for the German military to house the Seilzuggerät 500 kg (a 500kg capacity wire rope hoist/winch). A classic piece of WWII-era German engineering, the crate features heavy-duty stamped "X" reinforcement ribs, side-mounted flip handles, and robust tension latches. The top is clearly stenciled "Seilzuggerät 500 kg, " and the front and sides bear the inventory number "29" within a rectangular border. Inside, the lid retains its original metal frame for holding manuals or inventory manifests. The piece shows significant authentic field wear, including surface oxidation, paint loss, and some minor denting consistent with heavy military use, though it remains structurally sound with functioning hinges and latches. H 14", W 26", D 17".
Disclaimer: Due to the high quality of WWII German fakes, Donley Auctions has described this item to the best of their ability and assumes NO liability or responsibility if information provided is incorrect. Authenticity is unknown. Buyer assumes all responsibility to determine whether or not an item is authentic. Buyer may request additional photos, ask detailed questions and make inquiries into the specifics of this item. All content and information is provided “AS IS” and without warranty, implied or otherwise. Absolutely NO refunds are given for this item or any military relics, regardless of age or condition.
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