*British, Korean War Era, Mk IV ‘Turtle’ Helmet with Liner by FFL & Chinstrap, Size 7, Dated 1952*
Marked on liner: “7, FFL, III, 1952”
This is a very good example of the British Army Mk IV “Turtle” helmet, clearly dated 1952 and featuring its original early-pattern liner marked “FFL III 1952”. Introduced shortly after WWII, the Mk IV was a refinement of the wartime Mk III, retaining the same broad “turtle” shape but improving liner attachment and chinstrap placement for increased comfort and versatility. It remained in widespread service through the 1950s and into the early Cold War period, including use during the Korean War.
The Mk IV moved the chinstrap lugs lower on the shell for a better fit and introduced the lift-the-dot liner system, allowing the helmet shell to double as a water container. The liner is clearly stamped “FFL III 1952”, believed to refer to Fisher Foils Ltd, a British government contractor producing liners during the early 1950s. The shell is painted matte black, often associated with issue to civil defence, Home Office units, or export (notably to French forces, who received British Mk IVs for postwar use, including in Indochina and Korea).
Historical Note:
The Mk IV was the British Army’s final steel helmet before composite types were introduced. Its “turtle” shape offered approximately 38% more protection than the earlier Mk II, particularly to the sides and rear of the head. Helmets like this were used during the Korean War, Malayan Emergency, and Cold War deployments, with many early examples supplied to France and other allies under military aid programs.
*Condition*
This helmet remains in very good condition throughout. The shell retains its full shape with no cracks, dents, or warping. The original matte black paint finish is mostly intact, with minor scuffs and handling wear around the rim. The liner is complete and secure, marked “FFL III 1952” with helmet size “7”, and shows age-related wear to the faux leather crown pad. The green webbing chinstrap is original, fully attached, and in good serviceable condition, with light fading and minor patina to metal clips. All fittings are original and undisturbed.
A clean, complete, and increasingly hard-to-find example of an early Mk IV turtle helmet, dated 1952. Ideal for postwar British or French militaria collectors, Cold War displays, or Korean War reenactors.
JAQBE_2569140525
