Original U.S. Vietnam War USMC M1 Helmet with Original Graffiti On Mitchell Pattern Camouflage Cover “The Big A”
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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 produced without paint was a liability.
This helmet is a fine Vietnam War issued example and still retains most of its original period parts, and the shell has the original Green finish.
It is equipped with a standard Reversible Camouflage cover, which has a contract code but no date. It no longer retains the elastic band but this isn’t uncommon to see missing. The graffiti that is present on the cover is entirely original to the helmet, and includes a set of initials, G.A.L., and a few other markings including “THE BIG A”, and “PLEAD” at the top. Then there are some locations including “SHYTOWN / CHICAGO”, Shytown being a phonetic spelling of “Chi-Town”, a nickname for Chicago. These is some tearing along the edge of the cover.
The helmet, cover, shell, and liner are all correct for a Vietnam war helmet. The helmet comes complete with high pressure Vietnam War era liner, that is only marked with a 1 on the interior crown, no maker mark.
The included reversible camouflage cover is in very good, light service worn condition. There is a bit of wear around the edges, and overall slight fading, typical of a cover that saw actual service in the field.
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue ones.
Ready to add to your collection and display!
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