WWI US Army Model 2 Experimental Helmet -
This is a fine example of a US WWI prototype/experimental helmet. Known as the
Model 2. It was very similar in shape to the helmets used by the Greeks in
the 15th century. The Model 2 was created in 1917. There were approximatelly
2000 helmets created by the Ford company. This is a very rare item.
A few things to note about this helmet include:
- The liner consists of a three piece pad.
- The chin strap is typical to the pre-WWII used by the US Army.
- The liner is secured to the helmet using small rivets. There is no
"crown" pad.
|
This page is a recognition and identification guide for US hats and helmets. Multiple
detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out clearly defined
points that should be noted.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my US headgear worth?".
A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the hats and helmets
is reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth
of US militaria in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military
antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
|
|
The liner is composed of three large leather, padded sections. Each pad is
attached to a metal ring, which in turn is attached to the helmet. The pads
are attached together at the ends via the use of a string.
This is very similar to the suspension system employed by the Europeans.
A chin strap made of canvis is provided. This is identical to the one used
in the US WWI helmets. Equipped with a hook at one end to help it secure shut.
The edges of the helmet are rolled to eliminate sharp points that could hurt
the soldier.
The crown is riveted as shown below. a close up of one of the ends of the
chin strap is also provided.
US headgear is currently being
reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because
the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with
the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of this headgear.
Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of
the collectible.
If you have an interest is seeing other American military headgear, you can do so by
going to our US Military headgear
identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Army Air Force and other organizations.
|
