This British, WW2 Avon Gas Mask is a very rare version, noted by the additional piece above the filter. This piece, called an “exhalation valve cover” is usually missing from most gas masks of the era.

The Avon Rubber Company, founded in 1885 in Wiltshire, England, specialised in rubber products ranging from tyres and industrial goods to protective equipment. During WW2, Avon became a major supplier of gas masks for both civilians and the military, producing millions of respirators that were vital to Britain’s civil defence. Today, under the name Avon Protection, the company continues to manufacture advanced respiratory and ballistic protection for armed forces and emergency services worldwide.

It has a variety of markings on it, but they date this piece as November 1940, being made by Avon Rubber Company. The “7” denotes a pattern number or part reference. The “B.R. 8 11 40” marking on the back side of the nose piece relates to British Respirator/ Board Reference which ties is to WW2.

It’s in incredible condition, with all the rubber being pliable, supple and in great smooth condition. The filter has NO dents at all to it which is amazing in itself. Usually these parts have at least one or two dents, or some paint missing but here, no. The herringbone webbing straps are in great condition too – and someone has added a pair of safety pins. Just to keep the excess webbing from flapping about too much. The webbing attaches to the body of the mask by being moulded directly into the rubber. This is a major stress point for these type of masks but here, there is ZERO wear. Overall this mask is almost new looking with its excellent condition. Also as stated before, the exhalation valve cover above the filter is usually missing on other designs – making this one very rare indeed. The viewing window has very minor wear marks to it too.

The tin is comes in, has the original cardboard packaging. This is just used to keep the mask stable in transport, and on the inside of the tin, the familiar filter circle can be seen where the filter has rubbed against the inside of the tin. On top of the tin, “Gas Mask” is clearly marked in black paint, and also on the back side of the lid, also in black paint; “container manufactured by Barringer, Wallis & Manners Ltd, Mansfield.”. It’s of a simple, usual design. Being made out of metal, painted brown colour and clearly marked as a gas mask container. It’s also got an integrated strap (which is also herringbone – matching the design of the webbing on the mask – a nice touch) so it can be carried on a shoulder. The tin has got a few chips on the paint, but 99% of it remains. There is also a small dent on the back, and a TINY dent on the front. So small, they were a challenge to properly photograph. Most interestingly, there’s a name written on the strap. We think the name is “Cobenhall”.

This is a really nice piece, in amazing condition but not only that, very rare with the exhalation valve cover not only present but still intact and in good condition.