WWII French Vernon A.N.P. 39 Gas Mask with Original Canister and Carrying Case

For sale is an original WWII-era French Vernon A.N.P. 39 (Appareil Normal de Protection 1939) gas mask, a rare piece of military history from the early stages of the Second World War. Manufactured by Vernon, this gas mask was designed for French forces in 1939 as a protective measure against chemical warfare, reflecting the fears of gas attacks that lingered from WWI. This complete set includes the mask, filter canister, and original carrying case, making it a desirable addition to any serious militaria collection.

Item Details:

• Mask: The A.N.P. 39 features a rubberized facepiece with large, circular eyepieces for a wide field of vision. The mask is equipped with an exhale valve stamped with the “Vernon” logo, a black plastic mouthpiece, and a canvas strap harness for a secure fit. Markings on the mask read “S.M.P.T. 103-P.T. 140-40,” likely indicating a production batch or date from 1940.
• Filter Canister: The cylindrical filter canister is attached to the mask via a corrugated hose. It shows signs of authentic wartime use, with visible rust, corrosion, and a small hole on the side, adding to its historical character.
• Carrying Case: The set includes its original cylindrical carrying case, made of pressed fiber material with a camouflage fabric lid and woven strap. The case is weathered, with a rough, fibrous texture typical of aged WWII-era equipment.
• Condition: This gas mask is in fair condition for its age, showing significant wear consistent with its 80+ years of history. The rubber on the mask has hardened, the canister has rust and a small hole, and the carrying case is weathered but intact. Please note that this mask is not functional and is sold as a collectible only. Handle with care, as old gas mask filters may contain hazardous materials like asbestos.

Historical Significance: The Vernon A.N.P. 39 was introduced just before the outbreak of WWII and saw use during the Battle of France in 1940. While chemical weapons were not widely deployed in the European theater, this mask represents the French military’s preparation for such threats. After France’s defeat, many of these masks were captured or abandoned, making surviving examples like this one a rare find.

Collector Appeal: This A.N.P. 39 is a must-have for collectors of WWII militaria, particularly those focused on French military history or gas masks. Its completeness—with the original canister and carrying case—adds to its value, despite the visible wear. It’s a tangible piece of history that tells the story of a nation bracing for the horrors of modern warfare.

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