An original British Brodie helmet Mk. II, refurbished during its military service and fitted with an original 1940-dated liner and chin strap. This iconic helmet is one of the most recognisable pieces of British military equipment of the Second World War and represents the standard combat helmet worn by British and Commonwealth forces throughout the conflict.
The Mk. II helmet was introduced in 1938 as an improved version of the earlier Brodie design used during the First World War. Manufactured from manganese steel, it offered enhanced ballistic protection against shell fragments and battlefield debris whilst retaining the distinctive wide-brimmed profile that became synonymous with the British soldier. Mk. II helmets were issued across all branches of the British Armed Forces and saw service in every major theatre of the war, including France, North Africa, Italy, North-West Europe, Burma, and the Far East.
This example has been refurbished, with a new coat of the correct colour paint. However, the fitted original 1940-dated liner and chin strap indicate early wartime manufacture and add to the historical interest of the piece.
Original refurbished Mk. II helmets illustrate the British Army’s efficient wartime practice of maintaining and reissuing equipment wherever possible. They are highly sought after by collectors of British Army equipment, Second World War militaria, and Commonwealth military history, offering an authentic representation of a combat helmet that remained in frontline service throughout much of the twentieth century.
This example would make an excellent addition to any collection of British military headgear, Second World War field equipment, British Army militaria, or Commonwealth military memorabilia.
Dimensions
Standard British Mk. II helmet size. Liner size marked “7”.
Condition
Good original refurbished condition, with evidence of minor rust and pitting on the shell previous to its refurbishment. The original 1940-dated liner and chin strap show honest signs of use whilst remaining complete and structurally sound. An authentic and collectable example of an original British Second World War combat helmet.
