Gun Collectors Dream Auction #87 General Gun Auction
Lot 1087:
Description
This lot consists of two vintage US military steel ammunition cans designed for the storage and transport of small arms ammunition. The first container is an M2 steel ammunition can finished in olive drab. It features yellow stenciled text on the side panel reading: 100 CARTRIDGES / CAL .50 / LINKED M9 / 1APIT M20 – 4API M8 / LC-91H621L380. The stenciling indicates the box originally held 100 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition for M2 heavy machine guns, linked with M9 links, featuring a mix of M20 Armor Piercing Incendiary Tracer and M8 Armor Piercing Incendiary rounds. The LC designation in the lot number identifies the ammunition manufacturer as the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant.
The second container is a steel ammunition can with a darker olive drab finish. Yellow stenciled text on the side reads: 384 CAL .30 CARTRIDGES / BALL M2 / IN 8 RD CLIPS BANDOLEERS / LOT LC 42619. This indicates the can originally contained 384 rounds of .30-06 Springfield M2 Ball ammunition packaged in 8-round En Bloc clips for the M1 Garand rifle. The side panel is embossed with the SCF manufacturer mark, identifying the Standard Container Company. Both cans are constructed of carbon steel and feature hinged lids with rubber gaskets, tension clamp latches, and collapsible carrying handles.
Each can measures 11 x 6 x 8 inches.
Dimensions: 11x6x8
Condition report:
Both items are in good military surplus condition. The .50 caliber can shows scattered surface scratches, minor scuffs, and a small area of blue tape residue on the lid, while its stenciling remains sharp and legible. The .30 caliber can shows a browner patina to the finish with moderate fading and wear to the stenciling. This can also exhibits minor surface oxidation and pitting along the edges and hinges consistent with age and field use. Both cans remain structurally sound with functional latches and handles.
Share this lot:
