ZF4 Scope can that sold today.

[Joseph Burke]

Thought I'd post (the images) this since it's already sold today for $1195
Sadly, it wasn't to me.

Listing info
"5/16/23 - This is a rare, late WW2 production wood ZF 4 scope case. The case exterior has the name of a veteran who likely captured and brought this item home scratched into the wood on one side, as shown (Sgt. Robert Bunker). There are some areas of chipped / missing paint, but the wood is excellent and complete with no cracks or major issues. The lid and secure strap are intact with smooth functioning hinge. The interior lid is waffen proof stamped as shown. Clean interior and includes a metal sun shade cover for a ZF scope."

 

[mdarnell19]

That’s an original case. Pretty good deal on the price. Some added something to the lid. I think the writing is cool but it likely hurts the value

 

[Joseph Burke]

That’s an original case. Pretty good deal on the price. Some added something to the lid. I think the writing is cool but it likely hurts the value

Yes, I think the key resembles a period Spam can or similar canned food key. To me that key and the Vet writing add value. Quite a nice piece at a great price point IMO. Just wish I'd snagged it.

 

[sturmgrenadier]

Very cool, see the initials written over the WaA, could have been the original owners initials. I agree it went for a great price. I have to post up the pics of the one I picked up last year.

 

[Mike2994]

I was looking at this when it was available and got distracted with something else, wish I would’ve snagged it.

 

[Wilhelm]

What's the purpose of the spam key?

 

[Joseph Burke]

What's the purpose of the spam key?

Assuming it is such a key, since that's only a guess, it would be to open a can such as Spam that might have required a key rather than using a P38 (or the German equivalent opener) but my immediate though/question would be who installed it? Was it installed on the German side from captured US products or was it post acquisition by a US serviceman such as the named soldier? Or is it a post-war add-on? I think some Vet specific research might aid in figuring that out. Yes, I think this key and the named soldier adds value but that is only my opinion (it adds value for me if I were buying).

 

[mdarnell19]

I highly doubt that a German soldier added the key to the side of the can.

While I really like the writing, the issue with it adding value is it is impossible to verify who and when it was done. So for that reason I don't think it adds value. It hurts.

 

[jmanngun]

What's the purpose of the spam key?

I bet it was to allow for the box to be hung on a wall for display with a nail. Think about it...

 

[jmanngun]

I believe several folks here saw it and considered purchasing it when it was listed active. Does the purchaser happen to be a member here?

 

[Absolut]

I bet it was to allow for the box to be hung on a wall for display with a nail. Think about it...

I fully concur. To allow to hang it on the wall for the opposite side then to show the inscription. Note there are traces for the spam key to be rotated, so surely once was facing towards top - from when being hung on it.

 

[Muncher 1953]

My 1st thought upon seeing the key was “coffee can key” , am I the only one who remembers ground coffee being packed in short squat 1 lb cans, opened w/same type of key? (tho I’m a pack rat with plenty of ‘old stuff’, haven’t seen such a can for decades)

 

[jmanngun]

I fully concur. To allow to hang it on the wall for the opposite side then to show the inscription. Note there are traces for the spam key to be rotated, so surely once was facing towards top - from when being hung on it.

Right on!

 

[Joseph Burke]

I bet it was to allow for the box to be hung on a wall for display with a nail. Think about it...

Very possible. A really sweet piece and the "key" just adds to its charm.

 

[iron bender]

I'd wager the key is from a USGI ration can...

 

[edwardc]

Anyone know of someone that makes reproductions of the wooden box. ?

 

[mauser99]

Anyone know of someone that makes reproductions of the wooden box. ?

they are around go on ebay or gun broker.. They might vary a little bit in quality but the repros are everywhere.. Lots of times being sold as originals of course.

 

[RampantLion]

The 143rd was one of the infantry regiments of the 36th Infantry Division, which fought in Italy. Great time capsule.