RAF TYPE H OXYGEN MASK, WW2 1945 DATED

SOLD
 
For sale is an extremely rare, wartime dated Type H Oxygen Mask. Size medium. Dated 4/45 (4th quarter of 1945).
 
As the photos show, the mask is in superb condition. The exterior rubber is still extremely supple, with no visible cracking or crazing, and the rubber facepiece itself still retains an excellent shape. Often these masks are found with significant wear around the anti-suffocation valve, but this masks shows none of the typical 'flaws'.
 
Inside the grey suede lining is in excellent condition with little to no soiling. 
 
The mask is complete with a Type-57 microphone assembly, complete with pink flecked loom and the early pattern box connector. The loom’s rubber retaining sheath is complete and in excellent condition (often these are missing or damaged). The mic as well is perfect, and the switch operates faultlessly. 
 
The harness has light soiling, and retains a fair amount of elasticity. Both straps are complete and in place.
 
The mask is clearly dated 4/45, indicating it was manufactured in the 4th quarter of 1945 (so it would be at the tail end of WW2). Interestingly one can see the mask has originally been stamped 3/45 and then was over stamped with the 4. Perhaps this signified when the mask was ready for issue?
 
Overall this is a superb mask, with a very rare date code. These wartime-dated H Masks are very hard to find now, and far rarer than an E* or Type G Mask.