Q & A

S. P. of Kingston, Ontario writes:

Enclosed are 4 pictures of an old gas mask that my family and I recently pulled out of my grandmother's basement after she passed away. In one of the pictures included, there is a certification stamp dated 1938, so I assume it's at least that old. The case containing the mask is in fairly good condition, and the label on the front is perfectly readable. I was wondering if this mask has any value at all, if it is rare or fairly common, and if it is worth keeping.


We asked Ross Wilson to respond:

This would appear to be one of those personal respirators used in the mining industry and I'll bet there are collectors out there of this kind of equipment. I would suggest S.P. surf the web for mining museums - there is one in Cape Breton - and perhaps their curator may be of assistance. As to value, well this is a little out of my field, but considering its apparent, good condition I would certainly expect to pay $50 - 100 for one.