Code: ODFGF/A
Mask, Microphone, Type E. Stores reference 10A/7831. Although similar in appearance to an oxygen mask, the Type E microphone mask was intended for communication purposes only and worn by crews operating below 10,000', the level at which a supplementary oxygen supply was needed. The facepiece (stores reference 10A/7892) was manufactured in a sandy coloured cotton twill with a black painted metal ring at the front, onto which the microphone was mounted. The ring also had two brass wire formers attached to it, these helped maintain the shape and were sewn between the outer twill and linen lining. A simple but strong canvas cloth strap secured the mask in use, adjustable at both ends via leather covered Bennett buckles. This mask is fitted with an ultra rare Type D RAF mask microphone assembly, stores reference 10A/7867. Note that whilst the microphone component itself (stores reference 10A/7355) is the same as the type 'E' carbon fitted into some type D oxygen masks, the outer casing is not. The microphone casing, manufactured in alloy, is in very good order bar some paint loss and retains the original switch. The external wiring (instrument cord) is braided with dark chocolate coloured cotton and is fitted with an early brown cased type 119 bell jackplug, stores reference 10H/10991. Overall condition is excellent, the facepiece has light soiling but is undamaged, retains very good shape and is both Air Ministry and A.I.D. marked. The lining is also excellent bar very light soiling. Excellent strap with very good buckles. Excellent loom/plug. These masks were made in small numbers and very few appear to have survived making this is an extraordinary find. Much rarer than a type D mask and the microphone is also much rarer than a type 18/19 'Battle of Britain' microphone. Do not miss this! Stock code ODFGF/A.
NB : Helmet and head are not included. You are purchasing the mask, microphone and loom alone.
