*RARE, British, WW2, RAF Air Ministry Type C 2nd Pattern Wellington Bomber Pilot Flying Helmet with Receiver, Mark 1VB Goggles, G Type Oxygen Mask, with Type 48 Magnetic Microphone*
This is a rare and complete World War II set of helmet, goggles, oxygen mask with microphone, all belonging to the same original owner who flew a Lancaster Bomber - "the most iconic heavy bomber of World War II". This collection is being offered on the market for the first time and has clearly remained together over the years.
By mid-1941, the RAF replaced the canvas and webbing Type D oxygen mask, iconic during the Battle of Britain, with the contoured rubber Type E, G, and H masks featuring integrated microphones. To complement these masks, the Air Ministry introduced the streamlined Type C leather flying helmet, which offered better head movement, noise insulation, and wind protection. The obsolete, fog-prone Mk I, II, and III "Bat" shaped goggles were also replaced.
RAF C 2nd Pattern Type Flying Helmet:
WW2 RAF C 2nd Pattern Type Flying Helmet: An early internally wired example with original receivers and wiring loom. Type C 1st Pattern was introduced in late 1941 to replace the B type helmet, it featured dark brown leather, a chamois lining, and suede forehead. The helmet was improved in 1944 for internal wiring loom for the microphone and headsets. The helmet was the same as 1st pattern but had a small hole cut to accept the mask mounted microphone jack plug, the front set of goggle straps were omitted, a set of 3 press studs on the right side with a clip on the left to take the Type E mask. The only other change was the leather chinstrap was replaced by a fabric cotton one.
RHS Receiver is marked "A Crown M", "10A/13466", and "143" in paint on the outer rim. LHS marked "A Crown M" with an indistinguishable number. Wired to the mouthpiece "10H / 14206" and "10H/14207".
RAF MK IVB Flying Goggles: (No sun visor)
Marked with a 7 on the front of each side. Strap marked: "A Crown M, Mark 1VB 22C/167, W.S & S. Ltd." Issued alongside the MK VI and MK VIA in June 1940, they were designed to fit a sun visor / anti-glare shield. These goggles have leather and enclosed spring straps and air ministry markings, including the correct stores code 22C/167. The manufacturer’s name 'W. S & S. Ltd' and the MARK IVB designation.
G Type Oxygen Mask & Hose:
Introduced in 1942, used until late 1944. Made of green rubber, fitted with the correct Type 48 microphone, and marked "medium" inside. Shows signs of age and wear with 'dog-eared' edges. The original copper nose piece is still in place which is rare. Most of the most notable attributes of this set is the oxygen hose fitted to the mask. This is a rare original wartime example. It is made from a lighter gauge rubber and appears thinner and longer than later hoses. These are very rare to find today and is testament to how original and authentic this set is. The end of the hose features the correct Mark 1V brass bayonet connector fitting bearing Air Ministry marking, king's crown, and stores code 6D/526, which is held in place with the correct style of twine used during WW2.
Type 48 Microphone:
Type 48 Magnetic Microphone: Marked "A Crown M 10A/12570", a WW2 example fitted to E, and G pattern oxygen masks. It features stores reference code 10A/12570, and an 'On' and 'Off' switch on the faceplate. and on the inside of the mouthpiece: "Ref No: 60/909" and on the vent "60/616".
Condition:
The helmet is in excellent used condition with all pop studs functional and the chin strap present. It shows some deterioration in the external leather where the goggles rested and the inside shows the expected service wear. The goggles are in good condition, with most of the painted finish intact. The ear loops and rear strap are in good condition, though the rear rubber face cushions have deteriorated, and the lenses show some delamination. The patina and wear are consistent across all pieces, reflecting their history together. Wartime helmets with goggles and oxygen masks are increasingly rare, making this a noteworthy find. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQAEOOXBAEE_3561167436
