Helmet/WWI. Metal with wool insert at top. Number 4018?
Collection
WORLD WAR I
Lexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Secondary Object Term
Helmet, Military
Nomenclature Primary Object Term
Helmet
Nomenclature Sub-Class
Headwear
Nomenclature Class
Clothing
Nomenclature Category
Category 03: Personal Objects
Maintenance
Maintenance History
Date
Feb 27, 2020
Research Notes
Notes
This is likely a U.S. Model 1917 helmet, commonly called the "Doughboy" helmet. Upon entering World War I in 1917, the United States lacked a modern steel combat helmet. The military chose to model their new helmets after the British Mark I "Brodie," as they could be manufactured quickly and cheaply. The shallow, wide-brimmed design offered protection against shrapnel and debris falling from above, a common occurrence in the trenches, but left the wearer vulnerable on the sides and back of the head. Millions of these helmets were produced in a short time by a variety of American manufacturers. They were typically painted with an olive-drab mixture that included sawdust to reduce glare.
