Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a correct WWI issue M1915 Portuguese corrugated steel helmet shell that still retains almost all of its original WWI-correct blue-grey painted finish. The M1915 helmet was the primary combat helmet used by the Armed Forces of Portugal during the WWI era, and was not replaced until the 1930s, when the British Brodie based Mk1 helmet was adopted.
The M1915 was a lightweight helmet designed by British Major J. MacIntosh and produced in Birmingham, England. The distinct corrugated, or fluted, bowl design was intended to increase the strength of the shell. Unfortunately these helmets proved ineffective in the trenches and the British sold large quantities to Portugal. This example still exhibits its original gray-blue color, which is a rarity, as most of these helmets were repainted green for service in the post-war years.
The helmet shell is in good condition, with the expected wear from service and age. The liner and chinstrap are completely missing, with just a few cork and fabric remnants around the edge. The blue-grey painted finish is somewhat dirty and faded, so the color is a bit hard to see. It also does look like it may have been repainted during the WWI period, but it was definitely not done anytime recently. The interior of the helmet shows some rust staining caused by the liner, which trapped moisture along the inside while it rotted out.
A true WWI M-1915 Portuguese Helmet Shell! It is a true rarity to locate an example of one of these that has not been refurbished for postwar use. This appears just as it would have been worn by a Portuguese Soldier serving on the Western Front during WWI! Ready to display!
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