Rare German WWI Smoke Grenade Glass – Blendkörper 2H with Original Marked Screw Cap

This is an original German military smoke grenade glass, identified as a Blendkörper 2H, dating to the First and second World War and remaining in complete, untouched condition, including its original threaded metal screw cap.

The Blendkörper 2H was a German smoke-generating device, designed to create dense smoke screens for battlefield concealment. These devices were primarily used for tactical obscuration, including masking troop movements, artillery positions, or retreats. The glass body contained a chemical smoke composition, which was activated by ignition and dispersed upon deployment.

This example features the characteristic thick-walled, bulbous glass body, manufactured to withstand handling while still allowing controlled breakage or venting during use. The glass shows strong field wear, internal clouding, and surface scratches, all fully consistent with long-term storage and military service.

The original heavy steel screw cap is present and correctly threaded. The interior of the cap is clearly stamped “2696”, while the outer ring bears the marking “16”, most likely a production or pattern reference and size designation. These markings are a strong indicator of authentic military manufacture. The cap retains its original, untouched wartime patina.

Surviving examples of the Blendkörper 2H are scarce, and finding one complete with its original marked metal cap is exceptionally rare. Most known examples are incomplete, damaged, or missing the cap entirely.

A superb and historically significant artifact for advanced collectors of German WWI militaria, ordnance-related items, or early chemical warfare equipment.

Historical & Technical Background – Blendkörper 2H

• Function: smoke generation for battlefield concealment
• Construction: thick blown glass body with screw-on metal cap
• Variant: 2H, indicating a specific chemical formulation and output type
• Issued as part of early smoke and obscurant systems, predating standardized WWII smoke grenades

These devices represent an important transitional stage in the development of modern military smoke munitions.

Key Details

• Designation: Blendkörper 2H
• Country: Germany
• Period: World War I
• Material: thick blown glass
• Original threaded steel screw cap
• Cap markings: “2696” and “16”
• Complete and untouched example
• Extremely rare in complete condition

Condition

Very good original condition considering age and purpose.
Glass shows expected clouding, scratches, and wear from service and storage.
Metal cap shows oxidation and patina but remains solid and fully intact.
No cracks, repairs, or postwar modifications observed.

Rarity

Extremely rare.
Complete examples of the Blendkörper 2H with original cap are seldom encountered on the collector market.