6D/101 Mk IIIB*Oxygen Connector

These increasingly rare connectors were standard RAF issue in the late 1930's and in the early stages of WWII and in use during the Battle of France and the Battle of Britain. They were used to connect the D mask oxygen hose to the aircraft oxygen system. Whilst the A and B variants look identical the A had no internal valve with just a rubber washer fitted to provide an effective seal to the aircrafts oxygen system. This evolved into the more refined B which is fitted with a sprung non-return valve which automatically closes when the connector is removed from the system.

Oxygen was supplied by a constant flow rather than a demand valve system and entered the mask by a breathing hose. Interestingly prior to 1941 this was insulated with a cloth covering ; our example still retains the cut end of that oxygen hose which is just rubber so it is assumed this one is a later issue example. In a Spitfire the male connector was mounted on the starboard side of the cockpit above the chassis control lever. Made from solid brass this example is clearly stamped with stores reference 6D/101 (the 6D prefix indicating Oxygen equipment) whilst the reverse side is stamped Mk IIIB* and above GB6 in a circle, as well as a Broad Arrow property mark. The sprung valve remains firm and whilst for sale as an aviation collectable we see no reason, if you happen to have a Spit to plug it into, it would work as intended back in 1940.

These are almost impossible to source now with thousands being scrapped for their brass post war so grab this rare survivor whilst you have the chance!