This helmet is an early version of the M1 infantry helmet produced in 1940-1941, however, the outdoor helmet was produced in November 1944, an era when the United States began mass producing military equipment for World War II. The features of this helmet make it a valuable and highly sought-after collector's item. Here is an overview of the features you mention and their historical significance:

1. Front Seam Manganese Rim

• These early M1 helmets have a manganese steel rim welded to the front (front seam). This is an important feature because the weld seam was moved to the back of the helmet starting in 1944. Thus, a front seam indicates that the helmet is from an early production run.

2. Original Lacquer with Cork Texture

• As you describe, the helmet still has the original paint and cork finish. This was done to give the helmet a matte, non-reflective finish, which was essential for camouflage and avoiding glare in the field. The presence of this original finish in good condition is rare, as many helmets were later repainted or modified.

3. Original Chinstraps with Early Buckle

• Early M1 helmets had a flat metal buckle with no additional locking mechanism, a design that was later improved to provide a firmer closure. These early buckles are rare today because they were often replaced later. In addition, the chin straps are made of cotton webbing, which tends to show signs of wear and discoloration after all these years.

4. Swivel Bales (Draaibare Lussen)

• Early helmets were sometimes produced with swivel loops (swivel bales) that were a lot less fragile than the fixed loops used on the very earliest M1 helmets. These swivel loops made the helmet more durable and allowed for better movement of the chin strap.

5. Early Liner with Westinghouse Ovals

• An original Westinghouse liner (inner helmet) with oval side vents, known as the Westinghouse ovals, is a valuable feature. Westinghouse was one of the first and most important producers of liners during World War II, and these oval vents are typical of the earlier productions. The interior of these early liners often includes leather and canvas straps, which show a patina due to aging.

6. Production years 1940-1941

• These helmets were produced in limited numbers in the early years of the war, giving them greater collectible value. They were primarily used in the early U.S. involvement in the war, and many of these helmets were lost or modified for later missions.

Authenticity and Collectible Value.

An original early M1 helmet with front seam, manganese rim, original paint and cork, early buckle, and swivels has considerable historical and financial value. Rare examples preserved in original condition, with no repaired or replaced parts, are particularly sought after by collectors. For official authentication and valuation, it may be helpful to have the helmet appraised by an experienced militaria expert, especially when it comes to subtle details such as original lacquer, cork texture, and chin strap fasteners.

This helmet has been carefully assembled with original parts and shells from the WW2 period.

You can request us to apply any sticker listed on this helmet.