Digger1915
Active member
Square dip helmets are few and far between so I was more than happy when this example turned up for sale early last year courtesy of a fellow collector and friend. Although in relic condition, it is complete and untouched aside from the chinstrap and was said to have been picked up in Belleau Wood, some time in the 1920’s, so may have sat for some years on the site of the Battle of Belleau Wood, fought over June of 1918.
The manufacturers stamp on this example is not visible but judging by the vent lugs, appears to be a size 62. Of note, the high standard of crimping of the underside of the shell not seen in later mass produced WW1 helmets. The chinstrap lugs also appear to have a very fine and sharp point. Also evident, a small shrapnel strike to the left hand side of the shell with a large radius percussion crack over the dome and down left rear side. Just visible and painted in black on the front of the helmet is “Belleau Wood”, “Chateau Thierry” and “Somme”. The liner band and pads are complete as is the leather liner band complete with its very finely executed stitching.
The manufacturers stamp on this example is not visible but judging by the vent lugs, appears to be a size 62. Of note, the high standard of crimping of the underside of the shell not seen in later mass produced WW1 helmets. The chinstrap lugs also appear to have a very fine and sharp point. Also evident, a small shrapnel strike to the left hand side of the shell with a large radius percussion crack over the dome and down left rear side. Just visible and painted in black on the front of the helmet is “Belleau Wood”, “Chateau Thierry” and “Somme”. The liner band and pads are complete as is the leather liner band complete with its very finely executed stitching.
