Not a silver item; Industrial Military Powder Tank Container, Mk.I, c. 1945
Hollowware / Industrial Military Container (Not Silver) · T.A.C.U. Co. (Tactical / Ordnance Manufacturing Contractor)
Pattern: Powder Tank Mk.I, Replacement Sample, 1945 Production
Type
Hollowware / Industrial Military Container (Not Silver)
Maker
T.A.C.U. Co. (Tactical / Ordnance Manufacturing Contractor)
Material
Aluminum alloy or nickel-plated steel (Contains no precious silver metal)
Dimensions
Estimated height 25-30 cm, diameter 15-20 cm; weight estimated at 1.5 to 2.5 kg (Non-precious metal)
Description
This object is frequently misidentified due to its metallic grey sheen, but it is an authentic mid-century military ordnance container rather than decorative silver hollowware. Stamped clearly on the front as a 'REPLACEMENT SAMPLE' for a 'POWDER TANK MK.I' manufactured by 'T.A.C.U.Co.' in 1945, this heavy-duty industrial canister was built for functional durability during World War II rather than aesthetic display.
Key Features
Embossed military nomenclature text, heavy compression sealing lid with wing-nut hardware, and utilitarian industrial construction lacking any precious metal hallmarks
Material & Composition
Aluminum alloy or nickel-plated steel (Contains no precious silver metal)
Finish & Decoration
Industrial matte grey painted or anodized finish with stamped military nomenclature text
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped text reading: REPLACEMENT SAMPLE / POWDER TANK MK.I / T.A.C.U.Co. 1945 / 423038 A 1
Construction Details
Heavy industrial machine construction featuring a gasketed compression lid secured with a rigid top bail handle and threaded wing-nut fasteners
Functional Features
Airtight or moisture-resistant military ordnance container designed for securely storing powder samples with a clamping seal mechanism
Handle & Grip Details
Sturdy U-shaped industrial metal top handle bracket secured by heavy-duty threaded bolts and wing nuts for a firm grip
Craftsmanship Details
Purely utilitarian industrial manufacturing designed for maximum structural resilience, airtight sealing, and functional reliability under field conditions
Authentication Indicators
Absence of silver hallmarks (like .925 or Sterling); presence of authentic military supply stamping, lot numbers, and functional heavy-duty hardware typical of 1940s ordnance
Origin & Manufacturing
United States military-industrial manufacturing, produced for ordnance or munitions supply contracts
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / World War II Era (c. 1945)
Age Estimate
Dated 1945 based on the clear, stamped production year on the body
Cultural Significance
Represents the immense manufacturing output and standardized logistical supply chains of the United States military during World War II
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with minor surface scuffs, expected wear from military storage, and intact structural sealing hardware. Not applicable for precious metal grading.
Value Estimate
Modest collector market value ranging from $50 to $150 USD depending on military collector demand, condition, and historical rarity
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry or lightly dampened microfiber cloth to preserve the original military finish. Do not use silver polish or harsh chemical dips, as this is base metal.
Similar Pieces
Other mid-20th-century military ammunition cans, powder tins, and sealed field containers from wartime contractors
Interesting Facts
Militaria collectors heavily seek out dated 1945 ordnance containers and replacement samples as historical artifacts from the final year of World War II