A mid-WWII evolution and refinement of early magazine carrier designs, the Type III pouches could be worn as a single item (typically enlisted men) or as a pair (typically by NCOs and paratroopers), three magazines to a side with the magazine loader in a pouch on the left hand side. This is a set of two (shoulder strap not included), light tan canvas construction with black leather reinforcement and metal hardware. Both pouches have "clg 43" (E. Melzig of Liegnitz) and "MP38 u.40" on the belt loops. The loading tool is constructed from blued steel, with "M.P.38 u.40" on the right and "98E 41 WaA815"(Steyr Works of Graz) on the left, and the magazines are all "M.P.38 u.40" marked, with dates ranging from "40" to "42". Provenance: The Putnam Green/Sycamore Collection

Extremely fine overall, with mild staining and wear appropriate to age and use. Some crazing is visible on the closure straps and belt loops, which appears heavier on the right pouch.