1945 dated MKIV Helmet

[PhantomGuitar]

Hi all.

So the story goes, i was in a surplus shop, picking around their piles of helmets, when i noticed this (well) used and abused helmet. I figured it was just another MKIV that had been well used and abused, and just for grins i decided to take a look at the year. I was rather surprised to find that the shell was dated 1945, as to my knowledge at the time the MKIV helmet was produced well post war. I decided to purchase it in a lot of other stuff, so the total cost of this helmet comes to well under $10 USD.

Certainly not a “museum” piece, and not particularly rare in hindsight, i still figured i couldnt really go wrong for the price paid. Sits on my shelf with my MKV, Canadian MKII, and British MKII with repro liner.

















EDIT: Sorry for the dressings being included as well. Not sure how that happened.

[tinlid]

A nice untouched Mk4,meaning it hasn't been repainted olive drab (50's repaint) & still has the original dark brown.
They were only made from late44/early45 until Jan'1946, although I've never seen a 46 dated one. Probably never will.
The soldiers service number on the strap I think is for 1951-55, so probably sat in stores until that time.
The price of these varies, sometimes they sell for as little as £30-45, others £70-80, but you got a bargain.

[Jerry B]

Wartime examples are well worth picking up and as Aaron mentioned good that it has not been repainted. A bargain at the price paid, though I have to say they are an ugly looking helmet to my eyes.

[Mark K]

Wartime examples are well worth picking up and as Aaron mentioned good that it has not been repainted. A bargain at the price paid, though I have to say they are an ugly looking helmet to my eyes.

.
Ok settle down Jerry although not the prettiest girl at the prom they start to look rather good after a few barley pop here is my 45 dated example for comparison.

Regards Mark K

[Gunny Hartmann]

Well worth the $10!....

[SHINDENKAI]

Whoa ! $10 for a unpainted 1945 Mk.IV.

Well Done !

Cheers!
Taka

[PhantomGuitar]

Thanks guys. It certainly isnt the prettiest (either in its current shape or overall ) but I figured for the price I couldn’t go wrong.

Certainly “been there and done that” regardless of wherever that is!

Based on its feel and texture, i would imagine it spent some time in the desert.

[Mark K]

They do grow on you after a while I have three MK 4-5 in my collection dating from 45 -52 with one MOD early 70's retro fit I need to acquire a Mk III to round my collection off .

Regards Mark K