These are original, British issue, 'Oil Bottles, MG, Mk1'. These bottles, made from folded and soldered tin plate steel sheet, were first issued during the first WW, being officially adopted in February 1915, when they were called 'Can, Oil, Guns Lewis & Vickers'. With various small variations these were retained in service with the Vickers (and other MGs such as the Lewis and BESA) right through until the Vickers was declared obsolete in the 1960's. These cans all appear to have seen little or no use and are in excellent condition, although they may show signs of small knocks and dings comensurate with their age. They are from various manufacturers, including 'S251', 'S. Groves B'ham' 'CWS B' and 'M76', some are completely unmarked. Most are undated although a few are dated 1942, there are at least 3 variations of screw cap and brush.