December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 201:
Description
This lot features a rare and highly specialized piece of World War II gear: an Original US Army Air Forces USAAF M3 Flak Helmet. This helmet, formally designated the M3 FlyerÕs Helmet, was a crucial piece of personal protective equipment developed during the war to protect bomber crew members from shrapnel and debris caused by anti-aircraft fire, known as -flak.-
The helmet shell is a modification of the standard M1 infantry helmet, designed specifically to be worn over the leather flying helmet and communications headset. It is constructed of steel with an olive drab OD textured finish, which often included a flocked paint mixture to prevent freeze-burns at high altitudes. The shell features cut-away sides and two large, hinged domed metal ear cups designed to protect the earphones. The helmet retains its original canvas webbing suspension system inside the dome and its original canvas chinstrap with a metal buckle. The interior of the ear cups feature the original brown padded lining.
The helmet shows clear signs of heavy, authentic field use, including paint wear, scuffing, and minor rusting on the ear cups and exterior. The M3 Flak Helmet is a scarce and iconic artifact of the USAAF air war over Europe and the Pacific. Its robust and specialized design makes this helmet a commanding display piece representing the bravery of WWII bomber crews.
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