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 dark OD Green finish. 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 of I 1842 is clearly visible inside the shell, which indicates manufacture by Ingersoll Rand Products, who produced a total of 3,174,296 helmet shells between 1965-1968 during the Vietnam Period. The helmet still has the original OD Green chin strap, with the correct modified buckle implemented during the Korean war and used until M1 helmet production stopped.
The helmet also has numerous personal items secured under the large elastic band that secures the Camouflage cover. These include a pack of VICEROY cigarettes with a piece of wood inside, silver plated brass crucifix, a tobacco pipe, and a 10 round belt of deactivated small arms cartridges.
The accessories were most likely added post war, but 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, which is stamped with the W Westinghouse Company logo on the top over 31. The helmet does not have a frontal eyelet, though a hole was made at some point to attach an insignia which is no longer attached. The rigging design of Vietnam war era liners moved to three straps that cross over in the middle inside a loop on one strap. Length and fit are adjusted by buckles at the end of each strap. This suspension is held tightly within the M-1 helmet liner by rivets and a series of triangular "A" washers. The sweatband is present and in very good condition, complete with markings on the back indicating it was made under a 1972 contract. The liner chin strap is unfortunately missing, which is not uncommon.
The included USMC reversible camouflage cover is in very good lightly worn condition, complete with the elastic securing band. There is light wear in some areas, as well as some light 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. 8189
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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