Original WW2 British Civilian Gas Mask – Dated 1937 – Complete with Original Issue Cardboard Box

Original WW2 British Civilian Gas Mask – Dated 1937 – Complete with Original Issue Cardboard Box

An original Second World War British civilian gas mask, dated 1937, issued to members of the civilian population in Britain in preparation for the threat of chemical warfare during the Second World War.

Following the outbreak of war in September 1939, gas masks were distributed to millions of British civilians as part of the Government’s civil defence preparations. The possibility of gas attacks was a very real concern, particularly during the early years of the conflict, and civilians were instructed to carry their gas masks whenever they left home.

This example comes complete with its original cardboard issue box, making it an attractive and increasingly collectable piece of British wartime home-front history.

The gas mask is in great condition and presents very well. An excellent original survivor, ideal for a collection of British WW2 militaria, civil defence memorabilia or home-front artefacts.

A lovely original example of the equipment issued to ordinary British men, women and children during the Second World War.

Historical Background

The British civilian gas mask programme was one of the largest civil defence initiatives undertaken in the years leading up to and during WW2. Millions were manufactured and distributed, with the intention of protecting the population against possible poison gas attacks.

Although Britain fortunately never experienced the anticipated widespread gas attacks, these masks became an iconic feature of everyday civilian life during the war.