Original Item: These are Genuine U.S. WWII Era Artillery Ear Plugs in original carry cases, each of which is marked marked M-S-A-EAR DEFENDERS on the top lid. The plastic classes are a typical "clamshell" design, with a closure spring. Each case has a very small mode maker mark on the inside, and is marked MADE IN U.S.A. on the rear. These were received by IMA in an original cardboard outer carton showing a "Winged Star" illustration and "ARMY AIR FORCES, HA 15365, DEFENDERS". The earplugs were issued for use during artillery barrages and were issued to all G.I.'s during WWII.

MSA is the Pittsburgh, PA based Mine Safety Appliance company, producers of military protective equipment such as goggles, hearing protection and gas masks from WWII to the present day. They also manufactured "high Pressure" M1 Helmet liners during the WWII Period.

The earplugs are made of molded rubber, with a steel core that ends in a "handle" on the outside to help with removal. Each also has a size marking of S(mall), M(edium), or L(arge)marked on the rubber.

Condition of the plugs is unissued, though they do have storage wear and some dirt on the cases. The rubber can develop white deposits, and the springs in the cases sometimes can get a bit rusty.