MK2 Pineapple Hand Grenade Value Guide

The MK2 Pineapple Hand Grenade is a quintessential piece of WWII militaria, serving as the standard fragmentation grenade for U.S. forces from 1940 through the 1950s. Its iconic segmented cast iron body was specifically designed to enhance grip and facilitate fragmentation, making it a highly sought-after artifact for historical displays.

What affects the value of MK2 Pineapple Hand Grenade?

• Condition of the cast iron body, specifically the absence of heavy pitting or modern rust.
• Presence of original components such as the safety pin, ring, and the correct M10 series fuse.
• Historical provenance or specific markings that link the grenade to early WWII versus late 1950s production.
• The quality of the inert conversion, with professional training versions often commanding higher prices than crude deactivations.

How to Identify MK2 Pineapple Hand Grenade?

• Verify the distinctive 'pineapple' exterior featuring a grid of deep segments cast into the iron body.
• Check for a hollowed-out base or a drilled hole, which indicates the item is a safe, inert training or display version.
• Look for original yellow paint remnants on the neck, which signified high-explosive filler in early WWII production.
• Examine the fuse assembly and safety lever for authentic US military stamping and period-correct steel construction.

History of MK2 Pineapple Hand Grenade

The MK2 hand grenade, often called the 'pineapple' due to its segmented body, was the standard fragmentation hand grenade of the U.S. military during World War II and saw continued use into the 1950s. Its design was intended to improve grip and fragmentation upon detonation. While many were produced, inert versions like this are often created for training or display purposes.