DEN 42 Collector Ammo from the CMP

[PhillipM]

I bought this back in 2003 and had a question on another thread about why it may have been repacked. Rather than clutter up that thread I took some photos and added them to the Jouster server and posted them here. Each bandolier has one of the repack cards printed on both sides.

[raymeketa]

That is a functional or repack lot number with the prefix "C" indicating clipped ammunition. My guess would be that the ammunition was originally packed in 20-round cartons and then re-packed at some later date to satisfy an order or request. The wirebound wooden box is a typical WW2 and later packing method.

Ray

[PhillipM]

I still find the M2A1 cans interesting. One is what I've been led to believe is an early one with the bullet shape impressed in the lid and the other the later one with the two raised dots. Since the tags say to return to Denver, wouldn't that mean the cans were made during WWII since Denver closed at the end?

[raymeketa]

The CMP paperwork indicates that the ammunition was DEN 43. The repack lot number indicates it was re-packed at Denver Ordnance Plant, which would mean sometime before 1945. But, I've been collecting US military ammunition long enough to learn to never say never and always avoid the word always. Re-packs were usually done at a depot or arsenal and the packaging was usually marked with the facility's code and lot number, such as Hawthorne, Red River, Pueblo, etc.

Regardless, a very nice collectable to go with a rifle or BAR.

Ray

[PhillipM]

Thanks, Ray

[fjruple]

It's my understanding that the Denver .30-06 ammunition was some of the most accurate war time ammunition manufactured. The ammunition is corrosive.

--fjruple