This is a nice original Wehrmacht (Heer) Shovel/Entrenching Tool Carrying Case (Spatentasche). The entrenching tool was a basic item issued to all EM/NCO’s and was issued with a specific carrying case that was to be worn on the belt. The carrying case is made of 'Ersatz' material (simulated leather) having two leather loops and could be worn on the load carrying waist belt. The carrying case is nicely maker marked and dated with 'gyd 43', 'gyd' is indicating production by the company 'Ludwig Krumm AG' from Offenbach am Main in 1943. The carrying case is in clearly used condition showing normal traces of usage, the leather is still supple. Hard to find original example!