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JWH-0001 WWII Japanese captured helmet and collection in original shipping box

This item is listed for historical interest only. It is not for sale.

This is an absolutely stunning vet bring back collection of WWII Japanese items still in the original box shipped home. The box came from Seaman 1st Class Kurt Knobelauch and was sent home to his father from a Navy hospital. It is unknown why it was sent from the hospital, if he had been sick or wounded. The box looks as though it was cobbled together from a number of different pieces of wood. The lid is in poor condition as it is made up of very thin laminated wood but still retains both labels. One showing the contents and who censored/ inspected the box. The other is the normal shipping label with US Navy cancellation stamps as well as US Customs markings and an additional censor stamp. The contents are described below but do not let this box pass by as it is an incredible find to see such quality items and in the exact same condition as when it was shipped home. Contents of the box: -WWII Japanese Helmet: This helmet is in excellent + near unissued condition with only minor wear to the top of the helmet. The paint is near perfect otherwise. The inside lining and chinstrap are in almost perfect condition and do not appear to have any wear or stains from use. The helmet is complete with the star on the front as well. I can not say anymore about this helmet it is the best example that I have ever personally seen. The helmet also has a single painted character on the back rim of the helmet which is the name or symbol for the soldier. The helmet is also dated to 1942. - WWII Japanese mess kit: This mess kit is about as close to unissued as you can imagine. The paint only exhibits storage wear. The ink stamp is still present on the bottom of the tin. You could not upgrade on this one. -WWII Japanese Bayonet: MFG by Kokura arsenal. The bayonet is in good plus condition with a nicely blued scabbard. The blade has a bright grey patina with the arsenal stamping on the ricasso. This is a nice example of a Japanese type 99 bayonet. -WWII Philippine souvenir knife: This knife and sheath is typical of what you would expect to find from the Philippine occupation. It has the original wood sheath that is carved with a flower or plant motif. -Additionally inside are four packs of WWII Japanese cigarettes. One has a Japanese Bomber motif on it. There are some loose Japanese post cards then a complete paper wrapped pack of post cards and some Japanese currency. There is additionally a letter from the Seaman to his father describing some of the items including all the serial numbers of the Japanese currency that are included.