Vintage Original M1917A1 Steel Combat Helmet US Military w/Liner/Chin Strap For Sale

This is a M1917A1 combat helmet, sometimesreferred to as the “Kelly” helmet. Itwas patterned after the M1917 standard steel helmet, (“Brodie” or “Doughboy”)which was the first steel head covering adopted by the US Army at the beginningof US involvement in World War I in 1917.

The shape was inspired by medieval kettle hats.Features a shallow, circular bowl and a wide rim designed to protect soldiersfrom overhead shrapnel in trench warfare.

The M1917 helmet was modified to M1917A1 in1936 with improved suspension liner. Itwas used in coast defenses and early in World War II (Wake Island). The M1917 was fully replace by the M1917Aihelmet in 1942.

This M1917A1 helmet has the distinctive internalcrown screw and brass/steel nut at the very top center of the shell to securethe internal aluminum and suspension cross.The new suspension system was vastly improved over the previous as aremovable leather and aluminum pad suspension assembly attached by a singleprominent top bolt/rivet.

The liner and suspension features a supplereddish-brown leather 4-pad suspension system and original khaki webbingchinstrap with brass ball-loop hardware. Free of typical dry rot.

The finish to the shell is patina olive drabwith cork particles mixed into the paint to reduce glare and reflection.

Helmet is overall excellent sound condition showingexpected age.