In need of gas mask expertise.

**WheelNDeal94** · 04-02-2012, 10:12 PM

As i was searchimg my local thrift stores, i stumbled upon a find that I immediately fell in love with. It was a square case with what I thought was one gas mask, but soon to find out it had two. The paper on the inside of the box reads

"WILLSON TYPES WIG AND WLG GAS MASK" at the top and then the rest of the paper is instructions, precautions etc... at the bottom it says "Printed in U.S.A. 8/64"

Besides this inside was the box for one canister that is on one of the masks, and the other also has a canister on the mask, but also has a brand new canister in the case, as well. I will try to post some pics soon. I have no idea what ive really got if anything. Its a cool decoration though. I need help with use, origin, price, etc Thanks

**GasMasksUK** · 04-02-2012, 10:35 PM

To get possitive ID pictures will be essential, however I have a rough idea of what it is already, I'm thinking its one designed for law enforcement or industrial applications judging by the paperwork and the fact its inside a storage box, but to be 100% sure pictures are needed. Sounds like you've made a nice find though

Thanks and welcome to the forum

Danny

**WheelNDeal94** · 04-02-2012, 10:41 PM

**GasMasksUK** · 04-02-2012, 11:18 PM

Okay, the first one you have there with the side mounted filter is a US Military M9 Gas Mask was standard issue from the early 1950's and into into the 1960's where it was largely replaced by the M17 however was still used for specialist applications. As for the second one I believe its a variation of the Willson Universal gas mask from the 1960's. The one you have is almost certainly for industrial use judging by the filter type and the fact its fitted with a hose instead of a smaller filter attached directly to the facepiece which seems to be norm with law enforcement masks.

Hope this is useful

Thanks

Danny

**WheelNDeal94** · 04-03-2012, 02:14 AM

So whats a ballpark range price for this set?

**Walkwolf** · 04-03-2012, 02:35 AM

8/64 = August, 1964.

Being light blue, not a military gas mask.

**GasMasksUK** · 04-03-2012, 12:16 PM

by WheelNDeal94

So whats a ballpark range price for this set?

The M9 is a very common mask, and your one isn't in the best shape so it wouldn't be worth any more than $20.... As for the Willson mask, its difficult to say. Its not particularly desirable or widely collectable like military gas masks and isn't in the best shape either but it appears to be complete, I'd say that its worth around $50.

Thanks

Danny