December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 240:
Description
This is an exceptional and complete flight gear assembly from the World War Two U.S. Army Air Forces USAAF , perfectly configured for use by pilots and aircrews in high-altitude environments where a lightweight helmet was desired. The set is presented in excellent condition, comprising the summer flight helmet, oxygen mask, and goggles. The core component is an original Type AN-H-15 Summer Flying Helmet, designated for intermediate altitudes and warm weather. It is constructed from lightweight, khaki/tan cotton twill, designed to be worn over the standard leather helmet for insulation or alone in summer conditions. The internal tag is fully legible and provides definitive provenance: SPEC. AN-H-15, SIZE LARGE, manufactured by BRADLEY-GOODRICH INC., with the contract number confirming this as a 1944 contract item. The helmet features rubber ear cups that house the ANB-H-1 receivers present and retaining straps for the oxygen mask, including the signature elastic retention strap running around the back, and a faint exterior USAAF stamp is also visible.
The helmet is outfitted with a period-correct Type A-14 Oxygen Mask, recognizable by its darker rubber and specific face seal contours, designed for superior oxygen delivery and fit compared to earlier models. The mask is secured by olive drab and tan webbing straps and is complete with its corrugated hose and end fittings. The set is capped by a pair of Type B-8 Flying Goggles. These goggles feature a plastic or soft rubber frame and wide lenses, secured by an adjustable elastic strap. The B-8 model, with its simplified design, became a common sight in the mid-to-late war and post-war era, completing this rugged, functional aircrew ensemble. The completeness of the assembly, featuring the rare AN-H-15 summer helmet, the correct A-14 mask, and the B-8 goggles, all in excellent display condition, makes this a premium lot.
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