German WW2 child size gas mask

Step back in time with this rare and authentic German WWII child-size Volksgasmaske VM 40 gas mask, a poignant piece of history from the Second World War. Issued to German civilians as part of the Reichsluftschutzbund (RLB) air raid protection program, this mask was designed to protect children from chemical attacks during the height of the war. This particular example is a size "2" (stamped on the mask), intended for older children (approximately ages 5-12), and comes complete with its original filter canister and canvas carrying bag, making it a highly desirable collector’s item.

Key Features:
- Historical Authenticity: The filter canister is marked "FE 41," indicating production in 1941, a critical year in WWII when Germany faced increasing Allied air raids. The "Fe" (Ferro) filter was designed to neutralize chemical agents, reflecting the era’s pervasive fear of gas warfare.
- Child-Size Design: Stamped with a "2" on the mask, this piece was specifically made for children, offering a rare glimpse into the impact of the war on civilian life, particularly the youngest members of society.
- Complete Set: Includes the original rubberized mask with large circular glass eye lenses, adjustable woven fabric head straps, the "FE 41" filter canister, and a durable canvas carrying bag with metal rivets and straps. The bag allowed children to carry their masks to school or shelters during air raids.
- Condition: The mask is in good condition for its age, showing authentic signs of wear such as minor cracking in the rubber, paint chipping on the eye lens rims, and light rust on the filter canister. The canvas bag and straps exhibit fading and minor staining, consistent with 80-year-old fabric. All components are intact and functional for display purposes.
- Markings: The head strap features faded manufacturer or batch markings, adding to its authenticity. The mask and filter canister also bear clear production stamps, making this a well-documented piece.

Historical Significance: The Volksgasmaske was mass-produced in the late 1930s and early 1940s to protect German civilians from chemical attacks, a fear rooted in the memory of WWI gas warfare. While chemical weapons were not widely used in WWII, these masks were a constant presence in civilian life, with children often participating in air raid drills. This child-size mask is a sobering reminder of the war’s far-reaching effects on all levels of society.

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