US M1 Combat Helmet with fixed bale and front seam. The M-1 helmet was developed as a replacement for the M-1917 helmet that had seen use since WW1. The M-1 helmet was approved for production in June of 1941. Early models had solid loops (fixed bale) for the chin straps but they broke off to often and were replaced with a moveable hinged loop. This is a helmet with the fixed bale loops and front seam stainless steel rim. The helmet is complete with its original chinstrap. Early models came with these cardboard so-called "Hawley" liners made by the General Fibre Company. These weak quality liners were soon to be replaced by the stronger high pressure liners. The liner is in good used condition, there is some damage around the edges and the helmet is dented to fit between the fixed bales as stored for years, see photos. There are some small damages and rust spots on the metal parts inside the liner, the liner is complete with its slightly damaged leather chinstrap. The outside of both the Helmet shell and liner were showing a Lieutenant Colonel's rank star although the markings of the steel shell are almost scratched off, see close up photos. This helmet is having its rarely seen original period attached netting still in place showing beautiful patina. This helmet has been published in the book 'M-1 Helmet of the World War II GI' by 'Pieter Oosterman' on pages 228/229. Stunning original early published helmet in good condition!

This helmet originates from the collection of the recently closed Eyewitness Museum!

Shipping: please note shipping for this item might take a few days longer because this item needs to be collected out of our separate secured storage location.