Yellow was the color code for high explosive ordnance from 1926 until 1942 and HE grenades were painted accordingly. Understandably, this was found to be an impractical color due to its high visibility to the enemy. In 1942 the color was changed to “olive drab” with a small yellow band just below fuse with the majority of the yellow grenades overpainted in OD. This example was probably made in 1942 as it has a solid base. The fuse is stamped M6A3 with contract numbers but has been converted to an M10A3 having the black paint on lower part of spoon.
A scarce grenade in condition as shown. Totally inert.
