WW I Emergency Ration?WW I Emergency Ration?

[Brian Keith]

This appears to be WW I vintage to me, anybody know for sure?

Note the caution: “NOT TO BE OPENED EXCEPT BY ORDER OF AN OFFICER OR IN EXTREMITY”

This was made by Armour and Company. Note, it has a hole in the end and is empty.

It is 5 7/8 inches long, X 3 X 1 ¾.

Thanks for looking, any info or comments welcome.

BKW

[warguy]

I think I remember them being WWI or even pre WWI. I think they are quite rare (and valuable) as well. I seem to remember some nice repro’s of these being sold on ebay not long ago. Very cool. 

[warguy]

Found the repro, looks the same, they call it a 1906 ration tin, but I wouldn't be surprised if they were issued and used in WWI as well. I know I have read accounts where emergency rations were issued and carried. 

 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/234043785687

[Brian Keith]

Great info, Thanks so much!

BKW

[AustinO]

Nice scarce ration, I've only ever had one of these.  If I'm remembering correctly the numbers below the code stamped on the end reflect month/year.  I can't tell if yours is 2/11? 

[Brian Keith]

Thanks Austin, I wondered if it was a date code, it is not really clear in hand. My guess is it is 2/8.

Thanks.

BKW

[AustinO]

Just did some looking, its a 2-B below on the one side, the other side is where the date was sometimes stamped. 

[Brian Keith]

Thanks Austin,

Best Regards,

BKW