Original WWII British - Canadian MKII Post-War Refurbished Paratrooper Helmet with Net
-
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a nice refurbished example of the WWII MkII Paratrooper helmet, as used by British and Canadian forces. It features an original WWII issue brown helmet net over a repainted shell, and many of the internal parts are original. The leather liner looks to be an unissued original, which is dated 1942, with a H&C maker mark over the size 7 1/2. The foam padding however has been replaced with pressed wool or horsehair felt, which is actually far more resistant to age than the early foam rubber often used. The chin strap appears to be original, but is probably an unissued replacement.
The MK III began to replace the MK II helmet in February of 1944. The MKII was not widely issued until September 1944, although some were used by the 6th Airborne Division during the Normandy Invasion in June, 1944. The MkII helmet saw widespread use when the Division fought at Arnhem during Operation Market Garden and was also issued to the Polish Parachute Brigade.
The leather chinstrap and chin cup are present and in great condition, as is the helmet net. The liner comes complete with all padding and suspension strap. As expected, there is some verdigris around the fittings on the leather, typical due to the reaction between the leather and metal components.
Warman's World War II Collectibles price guide values fully original examples of this type of helmet as high as $1,700, but you will many times see them listed for over $2000.
This helmet is in very nice condition, and would make an excellent addition to any collection.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
We Buy Military Antiques
Our team expert buyers travels the world to pay fair prices for entire estate collections to singular items.
START SELLING TODAY
