Did you know? Explosives and toys

The German anti-handling device Entlastungszünder 44 (E.Z.44, later E.Z.S.M.2) was designed to prevent the removal of anti-tank mines. It consisted of a 225-gram TNT/PETN charge and a precision-trigger mechanism. The device was placed beneath the anti-tank mine, and if the mine was lifted, the small charge in the E.Z.44 would detonate—triggering the main explosive. Once armed, the E.Z.44 could not be safely deactivated.

Production of this anti-handling device began in 1943 and was carried out by the German model train and toy manufacturer Märklin.

During the war, Märklin balanced the production of military components and toys up until early 1943, when it ceased toy production entirely and focused solely on military orders. Märklin’s role was to manufacture the metal micro-mechanical fuses, springs, and clockwork systems for the E.Z.44—components that required the precision and expertise of a company at that level.

Although Märklin is widely recognised as the primary producer of the E.Z.44, a few examples have been found bearing markings believed to belong to another German toy manufacturer—Schuco (ETE Express 2010).