Item Description
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 the produced without paint was a liability.
This helmet is a fine example and still retains most of its original Vietnam War parts, and the shell has the original OD Green finish. The shell chinstrap is however missing. It is fitted with a very nice USMC reversible camouflage cover, and some lovely accessories to complete the look, held in place by the elastic band that retains the cover.
The helmet's heat lot code is I 236, indicating that it was manufactured by Ingersoll Rand Products, who produced a total of 3,174,296 helmet shells between 1965-1968 during the Vietnam Period.
As with many helmet covers used in Vietnam, this one has had lots of information written on the sides. This cover is named on the back:
JOEY
BRONX N. Y.
On the right side is is marked:
U.S. ARMY 101
CHARLIE'S DUG IN
WAS IT WORTH IT!
On the left there is:
Hill 937 5-20-69
A SHAU VALLEY
HAMBURGER Hill
The helmet also has some items secured under the large rubber band that secures the Camouflage cover. These include a pack a brass crucifix, a toothbrush, and a 10 round belt of deactivated small arms cartridges. We unfortunately have no way of verifying the writing and accessories, but the helmet shell, liner, and camo cover are all correct for a Vietnam war helmet.
The helmet comes complete with high pressure liner, which is dated 66 on the rigging. It does not have any sweatband currently installed, however those are easily obtainable on the surplus market.
The included USMC reversible camouflage cover is in very good lightly worn condition, complete with an elastic securing band. There is light wear in some areas, as well as some light rust staining. The color is retained very well, on both sides.
One of the tabs on the bottom of the cover is marked:
COVER, HELMET, CAMOUFLAGE
CONTRACT No. DSA 100 69 C 1921
FSN 8415-261-6833
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue ones from the USMC, and personalized to complete the look. Ready to add to your collection and display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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