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U.S. NAVY "LIFE BARTER" KIT

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Militaria Start Price:200.00 USD Estimated At:400.00 - 600.00 USD
U.S. NAVY  LIFE BARTER  KIT
An exceedingly rare U.S. Navy "life barter" kit, given to Navy pilots to be carried on their person in the vent they had to bale out over unfriendly or unknown territory where the contents of the kit could be traded with locals or unscrupulous enemy soldiers in exchange for the pilot being brought to friendly forces or directed toward freedom. The hard molded black rubber case measures 5 1/2" x 4" opened with five form-fitted compartments within. Included are all of the original trinkets intended for barter, including two ersatz gold rings marked "100%" and bearing Eastern designs, a small charm with an image of a fish, links of ersatz gold chain, and a Swiss-made 21 jewel Milus Instant Date watch with band which is in fine condition and still keeps time. These items match the items found in museum examples of this barter kit. The box is stamped with inventory control number "688". The box's waterproofing has browned a bit, but the contents remain in excellent condition. Milus, which only a few years ago learned that it had made these watches, has now reissued the watch in a commemorative edition.