US Military "Substitute Standard" Round Mess Kit--Late 19th/Early 20th Century

Description

"Substitute Standard" Round Mess Kit
Original late 19th/early 20th century US military "substitute standard" mess kit [meat can], round tin plated steel construction with tin plated steel folding handle. Measures 8 1/2 inches diameter. No markings. Tin plating is worn off both pan and lid with rust brown patina as a result, and tin plating on handle is tarnished from age, and several minor dents to lid, but still displays well and is nice and clean inside.
This type of kit was procured on a limited contract to make up the shortfall of standard GI mess kits due to the sudden influx of new troops [some sources say Spanish-American War period, others say as late as WW1]. I've also heard that they were procured on local contracts for various state military organizations as well [National Guard, state militia, etc.] Whatever the case, an interesting piece for any US mess gear collection and is in very good condition. Any questions please feel free to ask.