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WWI US Army Experimental Helmet Model 5A -
This is a fine example of a US WWI prototype/experimental helmet. The shape
of the helmet resembles a medieval crusader. Combining sharp angles with
curves. manufactured by Hale and Kilburn of Philadelphia. It is not known
how many of these helmets were produced.
A few things to note about this helmet include:
- The liner is the typical "Brody" helmet liner of WWI.
- The chin strap is typical to the pre-WWII used by the US Army.
- The liner is secured to the helmet using a metal ring..
- The liner has a separate "Crown" component which is attached to
the top of the helmet with a rivet.
- The crown is attached to the metal structure using 4 brown snaps.
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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.
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This is a view of the inside of the helmet. The liner consists of three rounded
leather flaps pointing towards the center. A string would be employed to secure
the flaps together. It is missing from this helmet.
The middle of the helmet has a pad known as the crown. The chin straps are the
same as those used in the WWI helmets. made of canvis with metal ends.
The edges of the helmet are rolled in to eliminate any sharp edges that could
cut the soldier.
US headgear in general 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.
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