Original WW2 British Anti-Gas Ointment No.2 tin complete with its full original contents. Items such as this formed part of Britain’s extensive Home Front civil defence preparations during the Second World War, issued and stored in readiness for the very real fear of chemical warfare and gas attacks against both civilian and military targets. While many people today associate wartime gas protection purely with respirators, ointment sets such as these played an important supporting role within wider anti-gas precautions.

Designed for emergency use following exposure to blister gas and similar chemical agents, these tins originally contained a number of sealed ointment capsules intended for rapid treatment in the field or during civil defence emergencies. Surviving examples have become increasingly difficult to find in complete condition today, particularly as many suffered from leaking contents, corrosion, denting, or the loss of their internal components over the decades.

This example is especially desirable as it remains complete with all original capsules still present. Importantly, the capsules remain unopened and show no signs of leakage, something that is genuinely uncommon with surviving examples of this type. The internal divider also remains in place, helping the set retain an excellent untouched and highly displayable appearance.

Condition overall is very good and, honestly, this is one of the best examples we have personally handled, something reflected in the price. The tin itself remains free from dents, opens and closes exactly as it should, and retains strong colour and clear exterior detail with no major scratches or damage visible. Internally there is a very small amount of light rusting visible to the inside of the lid, but aside from this the set presents exceptionally well for a genuine WW2 Home Front item now well over 80 years old.

An increasingly scarce and visually striking piece of British Home Front militaria that displays beautifully and would make an excellent addition to any ARP, Civil Defence, anti-gas, or wartime medical collection.