Lot 1509: Scarce U.S. Military Atlantic Escape and Evasion "Barter Kit"

Designed for and issued to American pilots during World War II for use in the event they were downed behind enemy lines, or otherwise found themselves in hostile territory. On average the kits contained approximately .90 Troy ounces of fine gold in the form of coins and rings and were issued sealed. Due to the value of the individual kits, each kit was serial numbered and had to be signed out and signed back in with all contents accounted for if the kit was opened in the course of duty. This particular kit is the Atlantic variation (kits were made for both the European and Pacific theaters). This kit contains: 1927 British 1 Pound gold Sovereign; 1887 British gold half Sovereign; 1903 British gold half Sovereign; 1859 gold 10 Franc; 1907 gold 20 Franc; and three embossed gold rings. The case itself is hard rubber and marked "IF FOUND RETURN TO/COM NAV AIR LANT (ONAL 34)/NORFOLK, VIRGINIA" on both sides and the individual serial number "1961" is visible on one side.

Fine. The container as mentioned is unsealed and has scuffs on the exterior and remains of sealant and adhesive on the interior. The coins are very fine overall with mostly handling type marks. Two of the rings are very fine and the third is fine with a darker patina. A very interesting and historic piece of clandestine U.S. military survival gear.