Original U.S. WWII Named & Complete Early M1917A1 Kelly Helmet with Textured Paint

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a genuine, very nice WWII U.S. Army M1917A1 "Kelly" Helmet. The helmet is complete with the original liner, chin strap and the small leather skull pad that is often missing from these helmets is present. The shell has the original OD green paint mostly intact, including the textured "corked" exterior. This example was quite heavily coated with cork, which has now worn through in areas, giving it an attractive speckled appearance. The shell is stamped ZC255 in the steel under the brim, a very early number. The brim of the helmet does show minor “waves” and warping.

The original leather liner is completely intact, with light wear from age and service. There is some dry rot and tearing around the edge as shown, though the liner does not show much sign of use, just age. The felt padding under the liner is still present but is partially broken off. Both of the ties for the top pad are intact, as well as the original top tie. The canvas chin strap is worn somewhat with some staining, but still solid.

There is a bit of staining, but no tears and the brass buckle and clip are correct and intact. A great original early WWII helmet with lots of history.

Ready to display!

The M1917A1 helmet was a transitional helmet used during the early years of WWII prior to the introduction of the more common M1 Helmet. It was basically a M1917 helmet shell, as used during WWI, with an improved liner and chin strap assembly. These helmets were widely used by the US Army Troops that occupied the Pacific Islands before and the Pearl Harbor Attack. They were also used by the USMC in the early Island Campaigns of 1942 & 1943.