WW1 Trench find items.

[Viscount]

Hi all,

I recently bought a few 'trench found' items from the Arras area of Monchy le Preux which was fought between British and German troops in 1917.

I have a slightly rusty but solid British helmet which I do not plan to treat with any 'cleaning agents'.

However, I have a number of buckles, straps, cartridges and other items from both German and British troops that are slightly encrusted or worse having been below ground for almost 100 years.

I could post pics if that helps.

Should I leave them as they are or try some sort of cleanser/restorer?

Thanks for your help,
Robert.

[Cam_S]

Trench Items

Hello,

If they are british buckels, then they are brass and should not rust. You should be able to clean the stuff up with just hot water if you are wanting to.

There is this sealant that we use on the WW1 trench items in my museum that basically preserves the item with out allowing any more rusting to happen. As well it keeps it looking like it was found except that it has a smooth finish to it.

As for the bullets. These should be treated very carefully. Not all bullets were made out of brass and you should be extremely careful with them. I would suggest having them deactivated by a proffesional so nothing to dangerous can happen.

Cam

[Viscount]

Thanks for the advice There is no live ammunition just a few spent cartridges and the buckles, straps etc are probably a mix of British and German.

Regards,
Robert.