Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a an original WWII issue M1 helmet "high pressure" liner, stamped with the Westinghouse Company logo, marked in white paint with a soldiers name and serial number. The liner is complete with full suspension and sweatband, but was definitely updated for reissue during the Korean war. It has the correct rigging for a paratrooper helmet, complete with the leather fabric reinforced chin cup. Underneath the front brim it is marked Robert T. Leroy U.S. 55505989, the name of the soldier it was issued to, making this an excellent research opportunity.
The liner is definitely correct "high pressure" WWII issue, and stamped with a W for the Westinghouse Electric Co Manufactured in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This "high pressure" manufactured M-1 helmet liner is identified by an embossed "W" in the crown (which is still Westinghouse's logo to this day). Westinghouse was the largest M-1 helmet liner producer and had two production divisions; Micarta and Bryant Electric. The Micarta Division produced about 13,000,000 M-1 helmet liners and the Bryant Electric Division about 10,000,000. Westinghouse Electric Company started M-1 helmet liner delivery in May 1942. Westinghouse did have a contract to producce airborne liners and converted an unknown amount to airborne configuration. Westinghouse discontinued production around August 17, 1945 when the war ended.
This true M1 liner be identified through the frontal eyelet hole. Other correct features include OD Green #3 cotton herringbone twill (HBT) cloth suspension liner. This HBT suspension is held tightly within the M-1 helmet liner by rivets and a series of triangular "A" washers. The three upper suspension bands are joined together with the correct tie string. This way the wearer could adjust the fit. The original suspension is definitely aged and worn, with some tears. The sweatband is present but deteriorated due to age and use. The rear support and paratrooper chin strap are Korean war OD #7 color. It is not entirely clear whether this helmet was converted to paratrooper style, or was just repaired after WWII with new issue parts.
Paratrooper liners are the hardest to find of all WWI and Korean issue M1 helmet liners. This fine named example is almost certainly to appreciate in value year after year!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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