U.S. Model 1918 “Liberty Bell” Experimental Helmet With Liner and Chinstrap

The exterior dark green gloss paint is largely intact, showing some spots, scuffs, and a dark circular line of surface verdigris around the upper circumference of the helmet exterior, which resulted from the liner of another helmet that was stacked on top of it for a prolonged period of time. The full interior liner remains present, showing signs of wear and use, no doubt from field tests that were conducted with the helmet. The full web chin strap is also present. 1,000-2,000 helmets were manufactured in but was so disliked by the troops that production was ended. The liners are weak and examples of this helmet are usually found without a liner. Overall an excellent example of a scarce experimental American combat helmet, and the only experimental helmet design of world War I that was accepted by the United States Army.