*Dutch / NATO, COld War - 1979 Dated, NR68C1 Steel Ammunition Can – 7.62mm NATO Linked FN MAG / M13 Belt Container – PWO Marked*
An original Cold War-era Dutch/NATO steel ammunition can manufactured in 1979 and retaining its original military stencilled markings for linked 7.62×51mm NATO machine-gun ammunition. Finished in olive drab and embossed NR68C1 PWO 79, this is the scarcer Dutch-produced NR68C1 pattern, manufactured specifically for Netherlands military use. While serving the same functional role as the familiar American .30 Cal / M19A1 ammunition can, this European NATO variant has its own distinct production designation and Cold War logistics history.
The front panel retains particularly attractive and well-preserved original military stencil markings reading "CARTRIDGE, 7.62 MM: NATO, LINKED", together with ammunition loading and quantity details. Marked 230, the can originally contained linked machine-gun ammunition assembled on M13 disintegrating links for weapons such as the FN MAG/MAG-58 and related NATO systems.
The loading sequence is identified as 1TR – 2AP – 2BALL, indicating a repeating tactical mix of one tracer, two armour-piercing and two ball rounds. Particularly desirable for display, the original yellow ammunition identification symbols remain intact and visible, including the rectangle (Tracer), triangle (Armour Piercing), and circular (Ball) stencils. These colourful visual markings were designed for rapid battlefield identification and today make the can especially appealing as a shelf or collection display piece.
The ammunition lot is marked LOT DAG 80-2, showing packing in 1980, while later transport markings including UN0012 and the 1.4S hazard label illustrate continued service and later NATO transport use.
Approx. Measurements – Width: 25cm. Height: 18.2cm. Depth: 7.5cm.
History Note:
Cold War NATO forces commonly packed linked machine-gun ammunition in compact sealed steel containers to protect against moisture and rough handling. Dutch-produced ammunition intended for FN MAG systems frequently used mixed tactical belts incorporating tracer and armour-piercing rounds to improve battlefield observation and penetration capability. Containers such as this often remained in service for years and were subsequently updated with later transport classification labels.
*Condition*
Retains original olive drab finish and military stencilling throughout. Surface rust and handling wear are present, particularly around the lid and exposed edges, consistent with military service and storage use. Hinges, carrying handle and latch assembly remain present, with interior remaining clean and the rubber seal intact. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3219AE_1218242573
