British MkII Paratrooper Helmet – BMB 1943

Original WWII British MkII paratrooper helmet, dated 1943. After the prototype P-type helmet, three models of British paratrooper helmets were introduced. First came the fibre rim helmet, followed by the so-called MkI from 1943, which featured a steel rim fitted to the edge of the shell instead of the earlier fibre composition band. This was succeeded by the MkII (sometimes referred to as the MkIII), fitted with a webbing chinstrap. The first MkII helmets were produced in 1943, and examples from this period are documented as being worn during Operation Market Garden (Arnhem, 1944). Later MkII helmets are dated 1944. This helmet was produced by BMB (Briggs Motor Bodies Ltd) and is an early 1943 dated example. It is extremely rare and considerably harder to find than the MkI helmet. The helmet is a desirable size 7½. The shell retains its original factory-applied first paint finish and shows only light signs of wear along with minor surface rust. It is clear that the camouflage netting has remained on the helmet for a very long time, as evidenced by the wear patterns and ageing. The helmet retains its original chinstrap and remains in untouched, uncleaned condition. The liner bolt and retaining nuts remain untouched, exactly as they should be.

A scarce and desirable 1943-dated British MkII Airborne helmet.