Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice service worn example of a WWII MkII Paratrooper helmet, as used by British forces. Unlike many we have seen, this does not show any sign of having the rigging refurbished post war. It may have had the shell repainted a lighter green post war, and the interior liner and rigging is unfortunately degraded. Most likely it was stored in a hot attic or other location, which accelerated the degradation of the rubber padding.
The leather liner is marked with BMB and dated 1943, and is marked with size 6 3/4 inside a shield. BMB is the marking for Briggs Motor Bodies Ltd., who also made Brodie and other helmets for the British war effort. The leather of the liner has unfortunately almost completely detached from the rubber padding.
It still has original foam rubber coated padding, which has degraded and cracked due to age, so some of the interior felt pad can be seen. The top pad is also dried out and curling up. The original leather paratrooper chin strap is complete, and still functional, though it does show wear and use, and is somewhat stiff.
Overall this is a very nice service worn example of a WWII Paratrooper helmet. Original unconverted British paratrooper helmets are rare in any condition. Ready to display!
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.
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.
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