Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The M1 helmet is a combat helmet that was used by the United States military from World War II until 1985, when it was succeeded by the PASGT helmet. For over forty years, the M1 was standard issue for the U.S. military. The M1 helmet has become an icon of the American military, with its design inspiring other militaries around the world.
Vietnam War era M-1 helmet shells have a set of swivel (movable) chinstrap loops called bales and a manganese steel rim. These rims had non-magnetic qualities that reduced the chance of error readings when placed around certain sensitive equipment (such as a compass). In WWII the shells had Stainless Steel rims, however these would easily lose paint, and the shine the produced without paint was a liability.
This helmet is a fine example and still retains all of its original Vietnam War parts and the shell has the original dark OD Green finish inside and out. The helmet's heat lot code is visible, which appears to be M 337 D, which looks to be a McCord Radiator made Korean War Era heat lot code, which is standard, as many Korean war and even WWII shells were still in service during the Vietnam war.
There helmet has also has had a nice Senior Parachutist Badge attached to the front, which has a single star above the usual "Jump Wings." This meant that the owner had completed advanced jump training, as well as 30 total jumps, at least half of which had to be in full combat load out.
The liner is correct high pressure late 1960s issue liner, which features a simplified rigging without any lacing in the center. This allowed for a much sturdier design, though it was not as adjustable. There is also the date of 21 JULY 67 stamped onto the rigging. The sweatband is in very good condition, with minimal wear, just the usual color change from age. The liner chin strap is unfortunately missing, but that was common on paratrooper liners. The paratrooper chin strap is intact, and in very good shape.
The shell chin strap is original, and has the correct modified catch intact, which would cause the catch to disengage if excessive force was used, preventing harm to the soldier
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue ones from the USMC. Almost certainly to appreciate in value year after year!
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