Code: 54750
An original 1938 dated British Army MKII Steel Helmet with its original paint finish.
This pattern of helmet came into use with the British Army in the late 1930s and was the standard issue steel helmet by the outbreak of war, although the earlier MK1* helmets were also still being issued at this stage.
This example is clearly dated 1938 to the underside of the helmet rim making it a very early MKII and ideal for a British Expeditionary Force collector or similar. It also bears the maker's initials of 'J.S.S.' which denotes Joseph Sankey & Sons as the maker. The chin strap lugs are also marked with the 1938 date. The shell retains a good amount of its original factory applied chocolate brown finish although there is rust and age etc as shown in the pictures. There is some additional paint to a section of the helmet which shows a shadowing from a helmet net.
The liner is the correct early pattern which features an oval shaped pad rather than the later cruciform shape used from the middle of 1940 onwards. The markings are visible and include the maker's name of 'Vero, the size of 7 and the 1938 date. The liner is held into the helmet with the correct large size brass screw, as used on these early helmets.
The helmet comes complete with an original chin strap which is in used condition as can be seen in the pictures. The original owner has marked his name in ink which reads 'Lieutenant Sargent'.
The overall condition of the helmet is reasonably good and it displays well. The liner is slightly dry and shows signs of age as does the chin strap. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing.
All in all a very nice early war British Helmet which is ideal for any early war collector!
