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 shows the stamped heat numbers '266C', this indicates production by the 'McCord Radiator and Manufacturing Company' of Detroit. 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 early hawley type liner is in very good condition showing slight traces of usage and a perfect fit in the M1 outer helmet. The liner is complete with its original leather chinstrap. This helmet is having its rarely seen original period attached netting still in place showing beautiful patina. Stunning original early helmet in very 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.