November 2022 – Steel Helmets of the World Wars

US AFS M15*

Historical Background: The American Ambulance Field Service was organized in 1915 in France and served under French command. The function of the organization was to drive ambulances for the French Army. It was staffed by American expatriates and volunteers recruited from American colleges. After the entry of the United States into the First World WarContinue reading “US AFS M15*”

Finnish/Austrian M17*

General Information: The German WWI style helmets were the main type used by the Finnish army in the 1920s and 30s and through the First Winter War. After this period a surprising variety of other helmets were secured, but the German WWI models continued to be used throughout the war and into the early post-warContinue reading “Finnish/Austrian M17*”

Yugoslavian M23

General Information: The Model 1923 French helmets exported to Yugoslavia were distinct from the M23 helmets produced for the French army in the interwar years. Like the Spanish export French M26s they were made with inferior non-manganese, magnetic steel. The export M23s also had a rolled rim, rather than a separate rim piece welded toContinue reading “Yugoslavian M23”

Greek M34/39

General Information: Contrary to popular belief in the collector community, the Greek Model 1934/39 helmet was produced entirely in Greece. The myth that evolved about this helmet was that the shells were produced in Italy under contract and sold to the Greeks prior to the outbreak of hostilities between the two countries. According to theContinue reading “Greek M34/39”

French Export M26

General Information: The French produced an export version of the Model 1926 helmet that was used by Republican forces during the Spanish Civil War. The was nearly identical in appearance to the domestic version but for the lack of holes in the front for a badge. The export M26s were made of mild, magnetic steel,Continue reading “French Export M26”

Japanese IJN M22 1931 Variant*

General Information: The Japanese “Cherry Blossom” helmet is a collector term for this model. Officially, it was called the “Provisional Standard Head Armor” and was referred to as “kabuto” (head armor). Collectors also use the terms Model 1922 or Model 1918 Type 2, or Second Model M18. For more information on this type, please seeContinue reading “Japanese IJN M22 1931 Variant*”