Code: 10398
WW2 RAF B-type flying helmet & MKIV goggle guide plates. A good example of the iconic B-type helmet as used and worn by aircrew and pilots during the early years of WW2. This example also has the addition of the guide plates for the MKIV series of flying goggles.
This example is best described as well-used, but still very displayable. The exterior leather is in pretty good condition, all things considered. There is minimal loss to the brown finish. With no holes, tears, or major damage to the leather, we can see. There is a small area of cracked leather to the brow, however, and some leather cream here may help soften and revive that cracked section, as it is thought it would be fine. Just below the right-hand side zip ear, a faint A.M. crown stamp is just visible.
The guide plates are in nice condition, still retaining a lot of their painted finish. The guide plates also with one of the little press studs guides that press onto the plates themselves. Often found missing from these types of modified B-type helmets. The chinstrap and buckle again work without issues, as does the rear adjustment strap.
The zips ears have obvious signs of modification to accept gosport tubes. On one side, the zip ear has been rather crudely torn to allow the fitting inside, whereas on the other side it has had a small hole neatly cut to allow the introduction of the fittings. Both zips are somewhat zip, but if worked gently do slide fine. Inside the zip ears have original sponges and fittings for earphones or gosport fittings.
Moving inside, the chamois lining is somewhat soiled from use, but there are no major issues or damage to report. Complete with both face defenders and ear donuts in place, also with the original label still present. An unusual label we haven't seen before, simply with size details and a contract number. Marked as a size 3 inside, we estimate the size to be around a size 56 UK hat size.
Overall, a very displayable B-type helmet with the rare MKIV goggles modification. It would still display very nicely with a pair of goggles and a D-type oxygen mask! A lovely piece for any WW2 RAF collection, museum, or display!
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