.45 Colt ammo crate
The Date is clearer now, 1944 production, probably for "Home" use (Canadians overseas tended to be issued with John Inglis Made Browning High Power Pistols in 9mm.
You don't need to touch the screws...the case is designed to open, by pulling the Pins (one on each steel top strap) and then the steel strap with only two (Hinge) screws, can be pushed off the top, (it will swing outward) and then the Lid can be lifted upwards at the free end, and will come out of engagement from the other (Fixed strap--4 screws) end.
AS the "seal label" (the woven fabric black printed tape) is already detached, you are NOT "breaking the seal" as it has already come adrift.
Once the wooden Lid is removed, there is a tinplate soldered liner, with a "rip-top" handle, which can be peeled back...if it is still soldered shut,, LEAVE IT ALONE...you have a sealed can....Much more valuable.
If it has been Peeled and then replaced, then you will have to inspect the contents of the Liner...for completeness, etc and condition. Then you can decide to "Part it out" if it is imcomplete. If it is still full, with the only defect the broken soldering etc, then you have a problem of whether to part it out or retain it as a complete, but opened container.
Let us know how you get along.
These crates were originally designed (back in the 1800s) as "Re-usable", to be collected, sent back to the factory for refurbishment, and re-use...fine for Peacetime, silly in Total War....
Regards, Doc AV
AV Ballistics.