December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 187:
Description
Vietnam War Era North Vietnamese Army NVA Pith Helmet with Air Force Insignia
This lot features an authentic and field-used example of a Vietnam War Era North Vietnamese Army NVA Pith Helmet or M_ C_i, notable for its unique insignia identifying it with the Air Force branch. These pith helmets were standard issue for NVA and Viet Cong forces operating in the region.
The helmet is constructed from compressed cork or pith material, covered in a light olive drab canvas or cloth exterior that is slightly faded, showing clear signs of genuine field use and wear, including scuffing and discoloration. The helmet features a wide brim, a domed crown with metal ventilation grommets, and is fitted with a specialized enameled metal insignia on the front. This insignia, featuring a red star and stylized wings over a circular background, confirms the helmets issue to the North Vietnamese Air Force or a related air defense unit.
The interior of the helmet is finished in a dark green lacquer, which shows significant cracking and peeling, confirming the helmets construction and field service. The interior retains a full internal leather liner suspension system and leather sweatband, which are secured by rivets. The leather components show heavy drying and cracking. The helmet is complete with its original dark leather chinstrap which is affixed via buckles and shows heavy wear and cracking, consistent with a combat relic. A small, mottled piece of fabric or insignia is pinned to the top of the helmet, possibly indicating an additional field marking.
This NVA pith helmet is a highly collectible artifact, particularly due to the rarity of the Air Force insignia, and its overall veteran condition provides a powerful, authentic connection to the forces of the Vietnam War.
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