Auction Item Details
Lot 92
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Lot Number: 92
Description: Christy Mathewson's World War I "rebreather" gas mask with war related paperwork. Historically significant piece of equipment used by Christy Mathewson during his time as a member of the Chemical Warfare Service in France. It was during the course of his training in the use of just such a mask that Matty was accidentally exposed to chemical gas which damaged his lungs allowing the tuberculosis which would eventually claim his life to take hold. "Draeger" makers' mark appears on the front and there are some additional manufacturer applied stamps throughout. Long stored within Mathewson's U.S. Army trunk (with the rest of his war related effects) the material has now dried and stretching it to bring out the intended shape is no longer possible. The head bands/straps remain in place as do the (now discolored) lenses which cover the eyes (however these have partially separated). It is hard to conceive of a piece which is more closely tied to Mathewson's noble enlistment in the Armed Forces and the unfortunate events which lead to his inability to return to his career in baseball and ultimately the illness which would shorten his life. Includes a three page typewritten document which was clearly issued as part of his training which is a "Summary of Markings For Chemical Shell And Properties of Commonest Gases" (toning, fold lines, and a few small chips tears). Includes Mathewson Collection certificate of provenance: GD-VGEstimated Price Range: ($2,000-$4,000)