*British, Late WW2, Brown MK1V Steel Helmet & Liner, Size 11, Dated 1945, by Briggs Motor Bodies*
31.4cm x 27.5cm.
Marked on the liner “BMB 11 1945”, “Lift the Dot” fittings.
This is a British Steel Helmet, a modification of the MKIII, introduced in 1945. It was the last metal helmet for Britain, replaced by the fibre MKVI in 1985. Manufactured by Briggs Motor Bodies in the first year of MK1V production in 1945, it is a size 11 with lowered chinstrap bails and lift-the-dot liner fittings, it retains its dark brown textured paint and features its original long chinstrap.
Briggs Motor Bodies of Dagenham, England, produced various helmets, including Brodie and MKIII, and also contributed to the war effort with dispatch rider helmets.
Production of Mark IV Helmets started in 1945, marking the shift from Mk III production. Although MK IV helmets had limited wartime use, they were utilized in the Far East. Designed for versatility, the MK1V is waterproof and its detachable liner, with its lift-and-dot quick release mechanism, meant that it could also serve as a basin or bucket. The MKIII and MKIV are nearly identical, but the MK IV has lower rivets, lower D-rings for the chinstrap, and a dimple in the crown. Like the MK111, it is sometimes nicknamed the “turtle” helmet by collectors due to its resemblance to a turtle shell.
*Condition*
Given its age and service this helmet is in excellent used condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQAEXBO_8811146931
