Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The U.S. WWII M-1 helmet was only produced from 1941 to 1945. The first production batch resulted with over 323,510 M-1 helmets before the start of the American involvement in the war. This helmet is stamped 631D, which indicates the approximate manufacture date of June-July 1943.
The Ordnance Department selected McCord Radiator and Manufacturing Company of Detroit Michigan to produce the steel M1 helmet bodies. These bodies were made from a single piece of Hadfield Manganese steel that was produced by the Carnegie-Illinois & Sharon Steel Corporations. Each completed raw M-1 helmet shell weighed 2.25 lbs each.
The early M-1 helmet shells had a set of fixed chinstrap loops called "bales" and a stainless steel rim. These rims were both rust resistant and had "non-magnetic qualities" that reduced the chance of error readings when placed around certain sensitive equipment (such as a compass).
This helmet is a fine example and still retains all of its original WW2 parts and the shell has all original "corked" grain paint with front seam and fixed bails. It did see service, so there are some small dents and wear to the paint, as shown. The inside crown of the helmet has the name MILES KENYON LIVINGSTON etched in it by hand. We have not been able to locate any service information on Livingston, we did however find his obituary. The obituary states how he graduated from high school in 1941 and then enlisted in the US Navy as a Seabee and was stationed at Pearl Harbor. We cannot confirm if he was present for the Japanese attacks, but due to him graduating school in 1941 it is unlikely, but still a possibility! With proper research you should be able to confirm or deny this.
The liner is correct “high pressure” WWII issue and stamped with an F logo over F4 for the FIRESTONE TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY Manufactured in Akron, Ohio this “high pressure” manufactured M-1 helmet liner is identified by an embossed “F” in the crown. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company started M-1 helmet liner delivery to the US Army in September 1942. They produced approximately 7,500,000 M-1 helmet liners and discontinued production around August 17 1945 when the war ended.
This true almost unissued US WWII M-1 helmet liner can be identified through the frontal eyelet hole. Other correct WW2 features include cotton herringbone twill (HBT) cloth suspension. This HBT suspension is held tightly within the M-1 helmet liner by rivets and a series of triangular "A" washers. The three upper suspension bands are joined together with a shoestring. This way the wearer could adjust the fit. The shell chin strap is present and in excellent condition. The chinstrap has the name Livingston, Miles written on it, matching the helmet shell. It’s a rarity to come across an original helmet and liner configuration!
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine WW2 issue liners. Almost certainly to appreciate in value year after year!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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