4382 WWI PERIOD FRANCO-BRITISH BODY ARMOR OR CUIRASS.

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[?]Live Online Auction Starts In 2024 Nov 03 @ 10:00 (UTC-4 : AST/EDT)
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 750.00 USD
Estimated at 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 USD
Interlocking small plate body armor, such as this example, was often manufactured in France and sold to British soldiers by military shops and outfitters for about $25. The armored vest would generally be worn over the shirt but under the tunic. It was favored by the troops because of the light weight and ease of donning the vest. The vest was effective against artillery shell fragments and splinters, as well as low-velocity rounds. Unfortunately, a high-velocity round could not only penetrate but embed the plate struck into the body. This example is formed by gray 2" x 2" metal plates linked on all sides by connecting rings on the front as well as the back. There is some variation in the size and shape of plates, depending on the location on the vest. The vest closes at the front of the shoulder with the use of four snaps on each side. There is also a single snap on the front sides and a tie to prevent movement while running. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: a display mannequin body with a WWI shirt. CONDITION: vest generally shows light wear with a few rust stains at the shoulder. The vest has been struck in the front by two pieces of shrapnel on adjacent plates near the center. (02-23076/BF). $1,500-2,000.