Step back in time with this extraordinary listing featuring a LOT of 2 AUTHENTIC and ORIGINAL Canadian military ammunition boxes (ammo crate) from 1945. Perfect to add to your militaria display, industrial-themed decor, office display, or just talking pieces that are sure to spark conversation.
But first, let's learn more about the items in this listing. I've done some research which I hope will be a great starting point for the buyer (hopefuly that's you!). The best way to go about this is to describes these boxes in general and then specifically with respect to each box's markings.
So, both boxes are made of wood (thin plywood), with riveted metal framing around all the perimeter joints. Original markings appear on the bottome of each ammunition box. The lid is double-layered and fully removable from the box. It is held in place by 2 movable clips which can tension-latch by snapping onto an embossed metal plate on either side of the long ends of the lid. On the sides is a moveable wire handle quasi-hinged on each side. One handle has a snap plate that when folded towards the second handle can "snap" in place to connect the two handles for easier transport. Each box's outer dimensions are roughly 14.75" x 9.5" x 6".
The most important thing to realize about this particular ammo crate's use is that they vary quite broadly. Many of these ammunition crates were labeled for use for one thing but then used for other things. But generally-speaking these wooden boxes (H51) could be used to carry different types of SAA (small arms ammunition) either boxed, bandoliers or belted and were used just like the Canadian military now use the M2A1 boxes for different types of SAA.
SAA stands for "Small Arms Ammunition." It refers to ammunition designed for use in small arms, which includes firearms such as rifles, pistols, and machine guns. Small arms ammunition comes in various forms, including cartridges for rifles and pistols, as well as belts for machine guns. In the context of the H51 ammunition box and its use during the Second World War, "SAA" would encompass the types of ammunition commonly used in infantry weapons, and the box would be designed to carry and transport this ammunition efficiently.
The H51s were shipped two inside a metal H50 box which was also stenciled with the appropriate contents. Depending on the contents, there could also be a metal insert for the H51 as well. However, neither of these boxes appear to have had metal inserts in them. The H51s were also designed to be recovered and re-used multiple times for efficiency.
WW2 AMMUNITION CRATE #1
- This box has markings: H51 CMK1 PWP 45
- Obviously, the H51 indicates this is a SAA box (see above description) designed to fit in one of two slots of the H50 box.
- The CMK1 appears to indicate C for Canadian, and MK1 typically refers to a Mark 1 designation, which denotes a specific version or model of a particular ammunition type or equipment. The Mark 1 designation is commonly used in military and firearms terminology to distinguish variations, improvements, or different versions of ammunition, weapons, or related gear.
- PWP is more interesting. I have not been able to determine if this is the manufacturer stamp/code... as nothing seems to correspond to those letterings.
- HOWEVER, "PWP" is associated with white phosphorus. White phosphorus is a chemical compound that has been historically used in various military applications, including smoke screens and incendiary devices. If "PWP" indeed refers to white phosphorus, it could suggest that the box was used to store or transport white phosphorus-related materials, such as grenades or other devices. White phosphorus grenades were used in warfare for various purposes, including creating smoke screens to obscure visibility and providing illumination on the battlefield. They were notably used during World War II and later conflicts. The use of white phosphorus in grenades has been controversial due to its incendiary nature and potential harm to both military personnel and civilians.
- And 45 is likely indicative of the year of use/manufacture.
WW2 AMMUNITION CRATE #2
- This box has markings: H51 CMK1 DLDC 45
- Again, the H51 indicates this is a SAA box (see above description) designed to fit in one of two slots of the H50 box.
- The CMK1 appears to indicate C for Canadian, and MK1 typically refers to a Mark 1 designation, which denotes a specific version or model of a particular ammunition type or equipment. The Mark 1 designation is commonly used in military and firearms terminology to distinguish variations, improvements, or different versions of ammunition, weapons, or related gear.
- DLDC remains a mystery. Again, it *could* be the manufacturer OR hold a differnent meaning. It's important to note that ammo box inscription did not follow a uniform format, so two similarly engraved boxes may have different meanings.
- And 45 is likely indicative of the year of use/manufacture.
Worn by time and history, these vintage ammunition boxes exhibit signs of age, attesting to their authenticity and the stories they carry (indeed, what would they say if they could speak!?). They provide a tangible link to the courage and resilience of those who served during World War II. It's truly an amazing, unique, and rare World War II artifact that will complete your collection whether you're a militaria buff, historian, antiquities hobbyist, investor, collector, or just an enthusiast who appreciates the value of this lot.
I hope you are as enthralled and impressed with these items as I am. Comparable eBay listings at time of writing show similar items selling for $140-150 for one box. I will try to price this lot as competitively as I can!
Please take a close look at all the photos. Thank you for your interest!