Original Military Mess Tins

Research below from Chat GPT These are British Army aluminium mess tins, post-WWII, most likely 1950s–1960s issue. How we know A few key details jump out: • Material: pressed aluminium — standard British issue after WWII (earlier WWI tins were often cruder; WWII sometimes had steel shortages). • Shape & handle: classic two-piece British pattern, where the lid doubles as a frying pan. • Markings: • 973-6265 → this is a NATO Stock Number (NSN) format. • The 973 prefix = UK • Confirms post-1950 NATO-era manufacture • TH 82 Λ or similar contractor code → manufacturer’s mark • The ↑ / broad arrow-style mark = British government property mark • The 85 is not a year here — it’s a batch or contract number Likely designation These match the British Army “Mess Tin, Aluminium, 2-Piece”, widely issued through: • National Service era • Cold War period • Falklands-era kit (very similar examples were still in circulation) They were standard for: • Infantry • REME / Royal Engineers • Basically anyone not on specialist lightweight kit Age (realistic range) 👉 c. 1955–1975 Older than modern camping gear, newer than WWII collectors’ pieces. A set of two mess tins.they fit inside each other for perfect packing, made from strong and aluminium with foldable handles as seen. Size: Large tin: 18.5cm x 13.5cm x 6.5cm , Small tin: 16.5cm x 13.5.cm, Handle length: 16cm Material: Tough aluminium