This is an original WW2 British Civilian Duty Respirator set, consisting of the No.4 Mk III civilian gas mask together with its original haversack, anti-dimming outfit, and the original labelled cardboard box. Issued to the British civilian population during the war as part of the government’s nationwide gas defence programme, the Civilian Duty Respirator became one of the most recognisable pieces of Home Front equipment. These masks were distributed through ARP centres across the country and were intended to protect the wearer from potential gas attacks, a threat that was taken extremely seriously during the early years of the war. The respirator itself is the standard No.4 Mk III type, clearly marked and dated 1942. The rubber facepiece retains good shape and clear moulded markings, and the metal filter canister remains attached as issued. The mask is accompanied by its original canvas haversack, which carries a clear wartime stencil dated 1941. Also included is the small brass Anti-Dimming Outfit Mk II tin, dated January 1942, which was issued so that the wearer could prevent the eyepieces from fogging when the respirator was worn. The set is further accompanied by its original cardboard issue box, which is printed with the contents label for a “Civilian Duty Respirator (Normal)” together with haversack and anti-dim outfit. While the individual components date from the same wartime period rather than being matching production dates, this is entirely typical for issued respirator sets, as masks, bags, and accessories were manufactured separately and issued together as required. Remarkably, the rubberised back piece remains flexible and has not gone rigid, something that is often seen with WW2 gas masks as the rubber ages. The rubber of the main body is slightly stiff but shows no cracking or damage, and it can still be bent and handled without concern. As the photos show, the haversack is in very good condition, and the small anti-dim tin is also well preserved. The original cardboard box has seen some wear over the years but has clearly done its job in protecting the contents. A classic and highly recognisable piece of WW2 British Home Front equipment, this complete respirator set makes an excellent display example and represents the type of gas mask issued to millions of civilians throughout the country during the war.
