Up for sale is this amazing canteen.
Seems to have never been used
Strap seems to be in the same place as the day it was produced.
NOTE: USS Stamp (PITTSBURGH Roots)
NOTE: ENG. spray painted on the front ( you can still see where they used a stencil and the black over spray )
8 in x 8.5 in (Including cap) round
2 QT
OWN A REAL COOL PIECE OF HISTORY.
I researched some information below, but cannot exactly date the item. I procured it from a gentleman's estate in the suburbs of Pittsburgh who was in his early 90s. The home was full of engineering tools, drafting tools, etc.
Research:
United States Steel (USS) was among the manufacturers of M-1942 Corrosive Resistant Steel (CRS), or stainless steel, canteens for the U.S. Army during World War II. These canteens were produced starting in 1942 as a substitute for aluminum, which was needed for aircraft production.
The M-1942 canteens were formally replaced by a plastic model in 1962, but metal canteens remained in the supply system for decades. Some CRS M-1942 canteens were produced as late as 1953.
The letters "ENG." on the canteen likely indicate that it was issued to or associated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
-This military branch is responsible for a variety of engineering services, both military and civilian.
-The markings suggest the canteen's intended use within an engineering unit for carrying water or other liquids for personnel working on projects such as constructing fortifications, building infrastructure, or performing other military engineering tasks.
Historically, military equipment is marked with identifying information, and in the case of canteens.
NOTE: USS = UNITED STATES STEEL stamp in company insignia in the galvanized steel next to the twist off cap. (Pgh based company)
Manufacturer's Initials and Production Year: Common on canteens from World War II, for example.
Contract Numbers: Denoting government contracts for specific equipment.
Therefore, the "ENG." marking on your canteen, in the context of military equipment, signifies its connection to the Army Co