Vintage Military Pilot Oxygen Mask
This is a vintage pressure-demand oxygen mask, likely a variant of the MBU series (such as an MBU-5/P or MBU-12/P) commonly used by jet fighter pilots from the late Cold War era. The facepiece is constructed from a molded olive drab silicone or rubber material designed to create a tight seal against the face. It features integrated communication equipment, evidenced by the black coiled avionics cable terminating in a complex multi-pin U-174/U type connector. The mask is secured by an adjustable webbing harness or suspension system made of tan elastic straps with metal adjustment buckles and bayonet-style clips for attachment to a flight helmet. The front of the mask features a black hard plastic exhalation valve housing and a port for the corrugated oxygen delivery hose, which is currently absent. Condition-wise, the mask shows significant signs of age and duty wear, including surface oxidation on the rubber, mild fraying of the textile straps, and some accumulation of dust and residue. There is visible discoloration on the webbing, suggesting long-term storage or heavy use. While no specific serial numbers are legible from the top view, these masks typically carry manufacturer stamps from contractors like Gentex or Sierra Engineering. This piece represents a critical component of life-support equipment for high-altitude tactical aviation.
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Estimated Value
$150 - $250
Basic Information
Category
Military Aviation Equipment / Militaria
Appraised On
December 28, 2025
Estimated Value
$150 - $250
Item Description
This is a vintage pressure-demand oxygen mask, likely a variant of the MBU series (such as an MBU-5/P or MBU-12/P) commonly used by jet fighter pilots from the late Cold War era. The facepiece is constructed from a molded olive drab silicone or rubber material designed to create a tight seal against the face. It features integrated communication equipment, evidenced by the black coiled avionics cable terminating in a complex multi-pin U-174/U type connector. The mask is secured by an adjustable webbing harness or suspension system made of tan elastic straps with metal adjustment buckles and bayonet-style clips for attachment to a flight helmet. The front of the mask features a black hard plastic exhalation valve housing and a port for the corrugated oxygen delivery hose, which is currently absent. Condition-wise, the mask shows significant signs of age and duty wear, including surface oxidation on the rubber, mild fraying of the textile straps, and some accumulation of dust and residue. There is visible discoloration on the webbing, suggesting long-term storage or heavy use. While no specific serial numbers are legible from the top view, these masks typically carry manufacturer stamps from contractors like Gentex or Sierra Engineering. This piece represents a critical component of life-support equipment for high-altitude tactical aviation.
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