Original Item: Only One Available. If you have ever done real backpacking and camping, this is doubtlessly an item that you are familiar with. Founded in 1900, the Coleman company has been producing Camping equipment such as stoves, lanterns, and other items for over a century. When WWII Broke out, they were a clear option to provide small camp stoves and lanterns for use in the field.

This 252 Milspec lantern has a single mantle and is dated U.S. / 1944 on the bottom. "White gasoline" use was recommended, but this lantern was special as it was the first that could burn anything that counted as gas. Designed by Coleman in conjunction with Aladdin and the American Gas Machine Company under instruction from the Department of War, these lanterns were built exclusively for military use from 1943 until World War II ended in 1945. This demand brought several unique features to the 252, such as a built-in compartment for spare parts (none present), a chained-on funnel and filler cap, and twin curved air tubes. Unfortunately the funnel is missing. The condition is really good, though it does have a modern Coleman brand replacement globe that someone appears to scratch off the “Made In China” marking on. All aspects of the lantern are original American made components except for the globe.

A wonderful example that comes more than ready for display.