British WW2 Fiber Rim Paratrooper Helmet, 1st Airlanding Reconnaissance Squadron

In a beautiful, untouched condition, a rare early British fibre-rim paratrooper helmet. Attributed to a paratrooper of the 1st Airlanding Reconnaissance Squadron, 1st Airborne Division, a unit active during the Battle of Arnhem.

Manufactured between June and October 1942, this short-lived model saw limited production before being replaced by later types. The helmet retains its original early (block type) liner, marked BMB 1942, with the dark green overpaint largely intact.

The left side shows a hand-painted flash of the 1st Airlanding Reconnaissance Squadron in yellow and dark green. The emblem displays clear age and has been present for a long time; however, it cannot be stated with certainty whether it was applied during the wartime period or shortly thereafter. This has been taken into account in the pricing.

The layered paint and light surface oxidation show a natural, undisturbed patina. All leather chinstraps and the chincup are present and remain supple.

A partial name and service number are visible on one of the white cotton liner straps, though not clearly legible and open to further research.

Recovered over 40 years ago and held in a well-established collection since. A rare example, with only a limited number recorded.