Diplomatic Courier Pouch

United States early 20th century

Diplomatic Couriers safely and securely deliver classified messages and material to U.S. embassies and consulates around the world. This leather courier pouch from the early 20th century in the National Museum of American Diplomacy’s collection was used by diplomatic couriers to securely transport diplomatic materials. Retired couriers who were consulted when the museum collected this pouch in 2012 noted that beginning around WWII, pouches started to be made of part leather and part canvas because all-leather pouches were too heavy, expensive, and difficult to work with.

  • Source/Credit: Gift of Bevan M. French, Mary-Hill French, and Sharon Tappan
  • Catalog Number: 2012.0001.01
  • Created: early 20th century
  • Acquired: 2012

This image is in the public domain and no permission is required to use it. Please credit the National Museum of American Diplomacy as the original source, and provide a link back to the item page where possible.

Most of our items are donations, and we cannot always confirm the copyright or trademark status of photographs, prints, drawings, and other artistic works that may be depicted in these images.

Please contact us at NMAD@state.gov for any permissions or usage questions.

MLA Format

Diplomatic Courier Pouch. early 20th century. National Museum of American Diplomacy, https://diplomacy.state.gov/items/diplomatic-courier-pouch

Chicago Format

Diplomatic Courier Pouch, early 20th century, National Museum of American Diplomacy, Washington, DC, https://diplomacy.state.gov/items/diplomatic-courier-pouch

APA Format

(early 20th century). Diplomatic Courier Pouch [Object]. National Museum of American Diplomacy, Washington, D.C., United States. https://diplomacy.state.gov/items/diplomatic-courier-pouch