Original WWII U.S. Army M1 steel helmet, early production example with fixed bale chinstrap loops and front seam rim.
The helmet retains its olive drab cork textured paint. Under the current paint layer, traces of white paint are visible, indicating the helmet was likely repainted during service or post-war use. The surface also shows a light mesh / gauze texture imprint in the paint, a detail sometimes seen on field-repainted helmets where netting or fabric was present during repainting.
Inside the shell the heat lot number 290A is visible, dating the helmet to approximately 1942–1943 production.
The helmet comes complete with its original WWII liner manufactured by Firestone, identified by the internal maker mark. The liner features the correct HBT suspension with A-washers and leather sweatband. The liner remains in good original condition; however, the liner chinstrap was replaced at some point during its lifetime.
Features
• Original WWII U.S. Army M1 helmet
• Early fixed bale shell
• Front seam rim
• Original cork textured paint
• Visible white paint layer underneath (later repaint)
• Light mesh / net pattern visible in the paint surface
• Heat lot 290A (approx. 1942–43)
• Complete with Firestone manufactured WWII liner
• Liner with A-washers and leather sweatband
Condition
Very solid original helmet with normal service wear.
The steel shell is structurally excellent with no cracks, no splits, and no dents. A very honest and attractive WWII helmet set with great character.
Perfect for WWII collectors, displays, or reenactment collections.