Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a genuine, very nice WWII U.S. Army M1917A1 "Kelly" Helmet. The helmet is complete with the original liner, chin strap and the small leather skull pad that is often missing from these helmets is present. The shell has the original OD green paint mostly intact, including the textured "corked" exterior. This example was quite heavily coated with cork, which has now worn through in areas, giving it an attractive speckled appearance. This example was made from a British WWI Mk. I Helmet shell, discerned from the shape and stamp on the underside: HS 144.
The helmet is named on the liner:
WHITE MCK. WALLENBORN
MONTICELLO GUARDS
There is a note of provenance stating that Dr. Wallenborn indeed wore this while serving with the 10th Battalion, Monticello Guards in Charlottesville, Virginia during the war. The Monticello Guards at this point was a state organization consisting of older men assigned to guarding and protecting local power plants and other similar homefront facilities.
The original leather liner is completely intact, with light wear from age and service. The felt padding under the liner is still present, which is rare to see. Both of the ties for the top pad are intact, as well as the original top tie. The canvas chin strap is worn somewhat but in great shape overall.
There is a bit of staining, but no tears and the brass buckle and clip are correct and intact. A great original early WWII helmet with lots of history.
Ready to display!
The M1917A1 helmet was a transitional helmet used during the early years of WWII prior to the introduction of the more common M1 Helmet. It was basically a M1917 helmet shell, as used during WWI, with an improved liner and chin strap assembly. These helmets were widely used by the US Army Troops that occupied the Pacific Islands before and the Pearl Harbor Attack. They were also used by the USMC in the early Island Campaigns of 1942 & 1943.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
