New Made Item: Only One Available. This is a high quality, museum grade new made item of a rare British WWI splatter mask as worn by Tank gunners. Constructed from steel plate covered in leather, hand sewn, with slotted eyepieces for protection as well as visibility. The bottom is fitted with a chainmail mouth and chin guard, secured to larger rings on the "mask" and also hanging down from the sides. The piece is secured to the tanker's head by two cotton tie straps located to the rear of the neck. Beautifully constructed.

These facemasks were one of the first innovations to help protect the crew for shrapnel flying around inside the tank. The war unexpectedly ended in November 1918, with the overthrow of the Kaiser. Even the Americans had estimated the wars duration to last until 1921 so many excesses in all types of gear resulted.

A lovely example of a new made item ready for display!