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' BRITISH PERSONAL ITEMS ' Category Please remember their is a BRITISH PERSONAL ITEMS section on the website for items of small kit used by the British soldier , sailor or airman. I will be updating this section over the next few weeks with regard to a collection of such items recently acquired.
Next update this coming Sunday 24th June 2007
Current updates ongoing as much new stock coming in, please keep checking back for new items.
****GERMAN UPDATE UNDER HERE ****
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War & Peace Show !! War & Peace show Row A76-78 ( Along the rear hedge line) ..Come & see us ! Random updating ongoing at our sister website - Bridgehead Militaria
'Final Victory' Michael Turner Print, Signed by Spitfire Pilot Flying Officer Town Superb limited edition print of the last engagement of Spitfire TB 752 which is now housed in the Spitfire Memorial museum at RAF Manston. By famous aviation artist Michael Turner, the print depicts its fourth & final victory against a Heinkel HE 111 on the 3rd May 1945 whilst flown by Flying Officer Frederick W.Town of 403 Squadron R.C.A.F whose signature is also on the print. A certificate of authenticity dated June 1985 from RAF Manston & signed by its then Officer Commanding Wing Commander Ward is also present which confirms that this is number 783 of 850 copies which were commissioned to record the 40th anniversary of Spitfire TB752's last operational flight in World War II. Historic piece of signed WW2 Aviation memorabilia. ***Please call to discuss delivery options or collection by arrangement*******
'Lancaster VC' Print , Signed by Two RAF VC Winners This superb limited edition print by the famous combat aviation artist Robert Taylor entitled 'The Lancaster VC's' depicts two Avro Lancaster bombers heading out towards Germany & is a tribute to all the brave aircrew members who flew with Lancasters & RAF Bomber Command during World War Two. The print is individually signed by the artist & also two Victoria Cross winners Flight Lieutenant William 'Bill' Reid VC 61 Squadron, RAFVR & Sergeant Norman Jackson VC 106 Squadron RAFVR. Bill Reid received his VC on the night of the 3rd November 1943 folowing a mission to attack Dusseldorf. On the way to the target his plane was strafed by a Messerchmitt 110 & the pilots windscreen shattered. During the fight Flight Lieutenant Reid was wounded in the head,shoulders & hands although remarkably he continued on for another 200 miles to deliver his bomb load. With his navigator killed & his wireless operator fatally wounded he dropped his bombs on the target & in his crippled & defenceless plane managed to get back across the North Sea & to an airfield where he was able to land. Norman Jackson was a flight engineer in a Lancaster bomber on his way to attack Schweinfurt on the night of 26th April 1944 when after succesfully having dropped their bombs they were attacked by a fighter at about 20,000 feet which started a fire near a petrol tank on the upper surface of the starboard wing between the fuselage & the inner engine. Receiving wounds from shell splinters in the right leg & shoulder Sgt Jackson tucked a fire extinguisher into his jacket & put on a parachute pack before climbing out onto the Starboard wing to tackle the blaze. Clinging on for his life the extinguisher was blown away causing Sgt Jackson severe burns as the fire spread. Unable to hold on any longer he was swept through the flames with his burning & only partially inflated parachute flailing behind him. As the Captain gave the order for everyone to bail out Sgt Jackson was descending heavily to the ground resulting in a broken ankle. He somehow managed to crawl to a nearby village where he was taken prisoner spending the next 10 months in a hospital needing extensive treatment for the severe burns to his hands. Four of the other crew members survived, the Captain & the rear gunner were killed in the crash. This superb print is a moment captured in time & a fitting tribute to those such men. **Please contact to discuss postal options***
*** Rare *** WW2 British Gas Cape One of the rarest components of the WW2 British infantrymans kit a British army Anti-Gas cape still rolled up as was carried by the British soldier with his webbing equipment. Complete with straps I partially unrolled it as can be seen in image 2 with the decision to unroll further left to the purchaser. Either way it is a rare piece. The anti-gas cape was adopted in 1938 and was actually a full-length coat with sleeves, produced from a green oilskin fabric. A second pattern produced after June 1940 was manufactured from camouflage material. The cape was longer than the standard rain cape, coming to just below the knees, and was closed using a series of press stud snaps. Above the left hip is positioned a box pocket intended for anti-gas cream and cotton waste, holes in the arm pit allowed for ventilation with the back being shaped with a ‘hump’ to accommodate wearing of the small pack. As the war progressed and the threat of gas attack decreased it became common practice for soldiers to use it as a raincoat. It was normally carried rolled on top of the small pack or secured to the back of the webbing belt.
**Rare***WW2 French \'Battle For France\' M35 Tank Helmet Probably one of the rarest WW2 French helmets this the M35 Armoured Vehicle helmet with rare tank branch of service badge to front. This helmet was much worn during the 1940 Battle For France as her troops attempted to fight off the German invasion. This is the first model of M35 tank helmet with fawn leather lining later replaced by a darker brown with the improved M37 version. Factory painted in khaki as per the new 1935 uniform colour it has an earlier originating M19 tank badge to front of the \'long necked\' style. Traces of the earlier blue paint can be seen under its khaki overpaint this indicating its early manufacture & reissue at a later date. The badge is 100% wartime original to the helmet. On examination of the shells interior the maker name \'MAMOU\' & date 1936 can be seen stamped in black ink to the dome along with the shell size. Leather very supple with only light service wear to shell , a couple of small dents are apparent but overall very good. Very hard to find original French tank crewmans helmets from this period this only the second I have ever handled.
1936 HMSO 'Textbook of Ammunition' This highly sought after 1936 HMSO manual 'Textbook of Ammunition' was & still is one of the bibles of the day on ammunition of the era with 322 pages of information , illustrations, diagrams & pull out colour plates covering the vast & popular subject of British ordnance. Twelve chapters each with numerous sub headings go into detail on subjects such as Explosives used in the Production of Ammunition, Cartridges, Tubes, Primers, Projectiles (I.e, Types;Design of; Length;Driving Bands ect) , Armour Piercing, H.E, Shrapnel Shells, Star Shells, Mortar ammunition, Fuzes & Gains, Markings of, Small Arms ammunition (I.e, .303 ball;.303 Armour Piercing;.303 tracer;.303 observation;.303 blank;.455 revolver & varieties etc), Grenades (I.e, Hand;Rifle; Signal; Markings of etc) Demolition & Blasting Explosives, Detonators etc etc to name but a few of the subjects covered. If you are interested in British ordnance then this pre WW2 manual is for you. An extremely sought after manual by ordnance collectors today.
1982 Falklands War Argentinian Camouflage Helmet With Rare Helmet Rank Marking A fantastic British Special forces souvenir Argentinian camouflage helmet most likely from a senior ranked soldier of the 25th \' Special\' Infantry regiment (RI25). This well blooded unit is known to have used a high quantity of ex American US woodland camouflage Mitchell covers purchased from an army surplus store called \'Charlies Surplus\' back in their home garrison town as is seen here. It is worthy of note that upon learning of there imminent deployment to the Falklands the Commanding officer Seineldin bestowed the title \'Special\' onto what was before just the 25th Infantry Regiment. Most of the officers & NCOs were , at that point, commandos & paratroopers who then whipped the young conscripts into battle readiness via a short but tough commando course. Many of these highly trained senior ranks would have had para liners due to there \'Special forces\' role & so with this considered it is well within the balance of probability that the taped markings to the rear of the helmet denote a senior ranking member of the unit such as a 2nd In Command etc. It is known that elements of this unit attacked SAS positions during the Falklands & so with knowledge of the SAS source from whom the helmet came from here I am quite confident of its heavy combat involvement in the campaign . There are the faint traces of a name to the headband with very heavy wear throughout & the effects of prolonged shed storage on the surface of the cover. I have made no attempt to clean it & offer it as it came to me , untouched & grimy !
1982 Falklands War Argentinian Helmet With Green Camouflage Cover A classic Falklands war used Argentinian army helmet which was brought back from the Islands as a souvenir after the campaign. This helmet is typical of the many seen in period photographs being worn by the Argentinian conscripts with `1967 regulation jacket hoods used as camouflage covers as seen here. Their is extensive weathering , grime & wear to its exterior. Helmet shell is asn Argentinian made example with the distinct shallow placed swivel chinstrap bales. Bothe sides of the chinstrap are present . To the bowl of the helmet is a handpainted number '1' with the initials 'Cdo' which is commonly found on Argentinian helemts of the Falklands period. Helmet liner shows heavy wear as with most of these combat helmets. A textbook one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield.
1982 Falklands War Argentinian Infantry Helmet If you are looking for one iconic example of an Argentinian infantry helmet this superb \' been in the thick of it \' recently acquired example may be for you. Typical of the conscripts of the Argentinian Infantry regiments the green hood from the winter parka has been fitted around the shell with rubber inner tube used as a securing band. Totally original to the helmet this has always been in place & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the unexposed areas underneath the rubber band. Helmet shell is an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own in roughly equal quantities ( Around 50%) . Webbing straps very typically showing heavy wear with hook end minus. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian features to the liner with ad hoc rivet placement from Argentinian depot refurbishment. A classic one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield of the Falklands Islands.
1982 Falklands War Argentinian Marine Infantry Helmet A battlefield recovered Argentinian Marine infantry helmet with camouflage cover , original rubber band & Goggles. This iconic helmet has the camouflage cover which was specific issue to Marine infantry. Lifting of the rubber band displays the discolouration to the fabric caused by continual wear & weathering. The helmet shell is an ex American M1 helmet as denoted by its high chinstrap bales , old stocks of these purchased from the USA & Argentinian produced helmet shells were both used by Argentinian forces in the Falklands. The chinstrap secured by a rivet at each end is very typical of Argentinian refurbished helmets. Goggles are ex American stocks with 1974 date. The Argentinian reworked liner is well worn with rust to some internal parts as is the case with most genuine Falklands campaign used helmets. A handwritten owners name is visible to the canvas webbing , this i have obscured in the photos & will be for the eyes of the purchaser only. A very interesting battlefield worn Argentinian combat helmet these being very difficult to find now.
1982 Falklands War Argentinian Named Battle For Goose Green Helmet (R.I.12) A classic Falklands war used Argentinian army helmet which was brought back from the Islands as a souvenir after the campaign. This helmet is named to a soldier \'ALAMAN\' from Infantry regiment 12 ( RI12) who fought at Goose Green & Darwin losing 35 killed & 72 wounded. This helmet is typical of the many seen in period photographs being worn by the Argentinian conscripts with winter parka hoods as camouflage covers as seen here. The \' Ejercito Argentina \' clothing label on the hood can be seen to the interior of the helmet with extensive weathering , grime & wear to its outside. The black rubber band has always been in place on the helmet & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the covered areas underneath it. Helmet shell appears to be an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own , in great quantities by their forces. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian refurbishment to the liner band rivets & the band itself is marked with the Argentinian \' FM\' for \' \' Direccion General De Fabricaciones Militares\' . A textbook one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield with Goose Green provenance.
1982 Falklands War Era British \'76 Pattern Paratrooper Helmet Issued from around 1976 the ' Helmet, Lightweight , Parachutists ' was worn by most major fighting units during the fighting to retake the Falklands in 1982 & in this early issue form is quite difficult to find today. Initially issued without a helmet cover improvisation was applied by the Airborne soldiers who wore them with nets & various DPM covers ( Often Hoods ) applied as is seen here. Made from resin impregnated nylon fibre they had a distinctive vinyl & cream kid leather chinstrap system which was found to be quite ineffective although was still the most common chinstrap system to be used in the South Atlantic war. This excellent example still has its 'Thetford Moulded Plastics' Nato Label with a heavily improvised netted scrim camouflage cover originating from a DPM hood. Showing wear the white kid leather backed straps & forehead area are very much sweat stained. Hard to find & an iconic item of Falklands war paratrooper kit .
1982 Falklands War Era British \'76 Pattern Paratrooper Helmet Issued from around 1976 the ' Helmet, Lightweight , Parachutists ' was worn by most major fighting units during the fighting to retake the Falklands in 1982 & is quite difficult to find today. Initially issued without a helmet cover improvisation was applied by the Airborne soldiers who wore them with nets & various DPM covers or hessian sacking applied as is seen here. Made from resin impregnated nylon fibre this helmet has the second generation chinstrap system much used , amongst others, in the South Atlantic war. This excellent example still has its 'Thetford Moulded Plastics' Nato Label with a heavily improvised net covered sacking to outer shell. Showing wear the white kid leather to forehead area is sweat stained & has the name 'CARTER' handwritten onto it by the previous owner. Hard to find & an iconic item of Falklands war paratrooper kit .
1982 Falklands War Era British \'76 Pattern Paratrooper Helmet Issued from around 1976 the \' Helmet, Lightweight , Parachutists \' was worn by most major fighting units during the fighting to retake the Falklands in 1982 & is quite difficult to find today. Initially issued without a helmet cover improvisation was applied by the Airborne soldiers who wore them with nets , hessian or various DPM covers as seen here. Made from resin impregnated nylon fibre this helmet has the second generation chinstrap system much used , amongst others, in the South Atlantic war. Originally designed for use with the vinyl & nylon chinstrap system this was found to be inadequate due to being hot , uncomfortable & insecure. The next generation of webbing chinstraps, as here , were in fact already in production by the time the South Atlantic campaign started & were seen in use as well as the tan webbing chinstraps from the earlier HSAT MKII helmet . So , in all , at least three different types of chinstrap were seen in use with this helmet in the Falklands campaign. This excellent example has a typically seen black rubber band holding the DPM camouflage cover in place. Showing heavy wear the white kid leather to forehead area is indicative of this Falklands period issue. Iconic & difficult to find item of Falklands war paratrooper kit . See the excellent reference work by Oliver Lock \' British Airborne Headdress \' for more information on the \'76 Pattern helmet in the Falklands.
1982 Falklands War Mount Longdon, Wireless Ridge \'Infantry Regiment 7\' Argentinian Helmet An Argentinian soldiers helmet with marking to Infantry Regiment 7 who fought at Mount Longdon & Wireless Ridge against the British Parachute regiment. This helmet is typical of those seen in wear by the conscripted soldiers who fought as infantry during this campaign with the green parka hood being utilised as a camouflage cover.The black rubber band was a common method of holding them in place & is seen on many of the helmets used there. Upon lifting of the band the difference in colour fading due to heavy weathering is immediately apparent . Helmet liner is typical of an Argentinian reworked example with ad hoc rivetting of the replacement white vinyl liner system evident . The ' SEGOVIA' mark can be seen on the underside of the central yoke. One end of the chinstrap has a hook replacement this is totally period & very typical of that found on Argentinian helmets. A combat veteran & iconic Falklands war piece.
American Vietnam Combat Helmet With Graffiti Art An American Vietnam period Graffiti decorated American paratrooper issue helmet complete with camouflage cover, paratrooper chinstrap system & various hand drawn annotations. This helmet is in a configuration very typical of those used by troops of the US Marine Corps during the Hue Tet offensive who were not issued with the Neoprine foliage band & hence used black inner tube rubber instead. Marines were also often issued with the Airborne helmet as here rather than the standard M1. When one examines the graffiti on the helmet the wording \'Rico 3\' can be seen this most likely a shortened name such as \' Ricardo\' or \'Richard\' . At the rear of the helmet there is also an arrow pointing down with the word \'Home\' above perhaps referring to a short tour. There is also an indistinct flower ( indicative of the feeling of the period ) on the side so probably a conscript . Upon looking at the markings on the rest of the helmet one can see the DSA ink stamp to camouflage cover tongue & the letter \'P\' on chinstrap buckle for the firm Parish who made helmets from 1968-69. Faint contract markings to its complete green webbing liner system. Fabulous Vietnam combat helmet .
Anglo-Boer War British 18th Hussars Queens South African Campaign Medal & Regimental Honours Silk Interesting family pair of items to a cavalry private of the 18th Hussars who served in the Anglo Boer war of the 1899 to 1902 period. Medal is of the second type Queens South Africa medal with very faint ghost date the recipient having seen service for which he received the clasps for the Relief of Ladysmith, Belfast, Laings Nek & Orange Free State. Coming with the medal is an 18\' by 11\' frame containing a mounted silk with the crest of the 18th Hussars & entitled \' Engagements Of XVIII Hussars, South Africa \' Listed are all of the regiments South Africa engagements including March To Dundee, Battle of Talana, Retired on Ladysmith, Siege of Ladysmith, Amerdfoort, Bush Veldt to name but a few. An interesting pair coming direct from the family & totally unresearched.
Argentinian Helmet With Cover A classic Falklands war used Argentinian army helmet which was brought back from the Islands as a souvenir after the campaign. This helmet is typical of the many seen in period photographs being worn by the Argentinian conscripts with `1967 regulation jacket hoods used as camouflage covers as seen here. The ' Ejercito Argentina ' clothing label on the hood can be seen to the interior of the helmet with extensive weathering , grime & wear to its outside. The black rubber band has always been in place on the helmet & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the covered areas underneath it. Helmet shell appears to be an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own , in great quantities by their forces. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian refurbishment to the liner band rivets. A textbook one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield. Faint name to nape strap of liner . This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Army/Luftwaffe Tan & Water Winter Parka Good strong coloured winter parka as issued to Army & Luftwaffe troops for cold weather use & seeing much use in the Ardennes Battle of the Bulge in 1944 & 45.. Jacket is of the non reversible pattern which was introduced to replace its reversible to white counterpart. These non reversible uniforms were widely issued to various Army units & also to ground troops of the Luftwaffe as well as the Volksgrenadier units raised by Hitler for the Ardennes offensive. With light overall service use all black bakelite buttons are originally sewn on minus one which is missing from the front right pocket. There are also several small holes around the bottom edge of the hood but it is otherwise sound. Grey artificial silk lining is complete & with its green to white waist ties to draw the jacket in for insulation. RB Number is still partially visible under the wind flap along with size mark of 'II' . Excellent camouflage combat garment.
As Worn August 1914 French M1872/1874 Dragoon Helmet With Rare 1914 Issue Field Cover A magnificent French Dragoon helmet of the M1872/1874 pattern with its rarely seen regulation 1914 pattern field cover for other ranks . These were in wear August 1914 by the troops of the French Dragoons who were in that early period engaged in reconnaissance , guarding the flanks & covering the infantry as well as liaison & escort. The Dragoon helmet is identical to that worn by the Cuiraissiers with the minor difference of no plume socket (marmouset) to the top of the crest. The skull , peak & neckguard are made from cast sheet steel which from a lobster tail to the rear with Medusas head to the front of the crest & thirteen palmettes seperated by water lillies. All of the fittings & the badge are of brass this including the chin scales which are adjusted by use of a partially concealed strap inner buckle system. The plume socket is set into the side of the helmet although the plume has long gone sadly . The front plate has a grenade set into two laurel branches this integrating with the bottom edge of the crest as the top grenade flame reaches upwards. To the crest is mounted black horsehair with a pleat which allowed it to be tied up so it did not flutter in the face of the cavalryman. Interior of the helmet has survived in very good order with the undersides of each peak lined in card . The sheepskin liner tongues are all good with no damage to holes. The cover fitted here is shown as it came & has clearly not been off of the helmet in many years. Distinguishable from its Cuirassier counterpart without the hole for the \'marmouset\' it is made from pale khaki cotton with tying cord around its edges. A hole at its rear allows the crest to be pulled through. A fabulous helmet which would take pride of place in any WW1 headgear collection.
Battle Damaged US Vietnam Helmet Just a sample of one of our recently sold items ... A US M1 helmet of the Vietnam war period with bullet entry & exit holes to front & rear & correlating bullet damage where it has entered the liner via the shell then travelled causing a large gash before exiting . Helmet shows heavy wear with ripped camouflage Mitchell cover that has an early to mid sixties contract number on the underside of one of its fingers. The sweatband is of the early 1970s period with a liner band that has DSA marking indicating pre 1976 manufacture. 'A washers' of the liner itself are of the pre 1972 pattern with a very faint date of what appears to be '7th December 1965' to headband. Long chinstrap remains . A helmet that was purchased in the USA some years ago I am sadly unable to provide any further information regarding its wearer.
Battle For France \'June 1940\' Worn Adrian Helmet With Dated Newspaper Cutting Inside Helmet A WW1 M15 French Adrian artillery soldiers helmet that has specific Battle For France interest with a newspaper cutting dated June 1940 folded down inside the rear of the liner. . WW1 Adrian helmets still in service in the thirties were overpainted in khaki to match the new uniform & M26 model helmet as is the case here. Quite often one can find folded newspaper tucked into the liners to act as insulation etc & so it is another pleasant surprise to find one here. Careful pulling back of the liner to expose the newspaper in situ reveals its date of 1st June 1940 at the time when the Battle for France was in full swing so this helmet was being worn during this pivotal battle. The liner itself is the second model of issue used from 1916 onwards being of multi construction to save on leather cuttings. Chinstrap is perfectly intact. A fascinating item of Adrian helmet history as well as that of the history of France with June 1940 interest. Le Jouet De Paris
Binoculars Of Lieutenant Colonel Ormerod Spence , Western Front DSO Winner - Served Ypres,Somme,Arras & Flanders A pair of field binoculars that belonged to DSO winner & Western Front officer Lieutenant Colonel Ormerod Spence ( 1879 - 1925 ) . Binoculars are broad arrow marked to bottom & contained within their brown leather case which has engraved on the lid \' Lt.Col G.O.SPENCE 50/ L.I \' One of the belt loops is detached at the bottom . In 1900 Spence was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 1st Battalion Durham Light Infantry. He made Captain in 1902 & Major in April 1908 . In 1914 he was promoted to temporary Lieutenant -Colonel & commanded the 5th Battalion until 1918. He took part in the second battle of Ypres , the Hooge gas attack in May 1915 , the Battles of the Somme in 1916 & Arras & Flanders in 1917. In the Battle of Lys he provided great leadership & was shot which took removed him from the fighting for the rest of the war. He was twice Mentioned in Despatches & was awarded the Distinguished Service Order ( DSO) . An avid collector of militaria he went on to serve in various roles in the immediate postwar years before being killed in a car accident in 1925. His military decorations included DSO, Mentioned in Despatches X 3 , 1914-15 Star , British War Medal, Victory Medal & Territorial Decoration.
Brand New Schiffer Book: Fallschirmjager In Portrait A little more than 30,000 men of the Wehrmacht and SS were qualified to wear the famed Fallschirmschützenabzeichen, or Paratrooper Badge, between 1936 and 1944. The badges they wore, and the images of the men who wore them, are avidly sought by collectors and historians around the world today. The authors have assembled over 300 indoor and outdoor posed portrait photographs of the Fallschirmjäger for this volume, most never before published, providing a fascinating representation of the photographers art in World War II and a superb study of their uniforms, badges and insignia. In poses ranging from fierce to thoughtful and even poignant, the German paratroops of World War II are seen here in perfect focus, as they wanted to be seen, preserved in deliberate portraiture for posterity. Brand new in stock.
British 1902 Pattern Shortened Service Trousers A pair of WW1 British '02 pattern trousers which have been shortened , apparently out of service , to just below the knees. This pattern of trouser underwent a few slight changes as the war progressed the most obvious being the doubling up of the number of waist buttons from six to twelve in June 1916. Although only now having six buttons to the waist there is evidence of the twelve having once been there & so we can date them from June 1916 onwards. There are two lines of stitching to the bottom of the side pockets with one earlier underneath this & so these may have been reinforced at a later date to their original manufacture. Two of the buttons at least are most certainly later replacements although all of the zinc dished buttons remain to front fly. Lined in the typical bleached cotton drill there are paired broad arrow markings indicating out of service with a faint black WD broad arrow marking . The unit stores mark ' DSMA '& service number 820531 may well be worthy of further research . A spattering of stitch repaired moth is visible to the front of the trousers with a very small number of moth nips to the rear being seen only upon close inspection . Some additional tailoring to the trousers can be seen to the rear seat plus a large patch replaced on the front right knee area.
British 1908 Pattern Webbing Equipment Set Near matching set of green blancoed 1908 pattern webbing as used by British troops in WW1 right through to the early part of WW2. Comprising this set are waistbelt, cartridge pouches, shoulder straps, bayonet frog, \' 07 bayonet & scabbard & smallpack. All parts are in excellent condition with a couple of WW1 dates visible. Cartridge pouches are marked with MeCo stampings also these are barely visible now , waistbelt is dated 1937. Smallpack is a good WW1 bag being clearly marked & dated \' MECo 1915\'. The 1907 bayonet with this set is dated \' November 1914 & bears the manufacturer markings of \'EFD\' (Enfield) . Cartridge pouches are of the MkII type with fastening straps on the left pouch to prevent ammunition falling out when firing leant up against parapets. Scarce set to find now.
British 1950s Korean War Middle Parka With Hood A British army 1950s 'Middle Parka' complete with hood & as worn during the Korean war. These were designed to be issued to troops in Korea who had initially deployed in thin inadequate jungle green uniforms. An excellent condition example it has four large buttoned pockets , two skirt & two chest with a zip up front & buttoned flap . Inside is fur lined with waist adjustment cord & tightening buckles to sleeves for insulation. Complete with the totally correct rare hood this has a tie cord & is wire reinforced around its opening for practicality. Parka has two labels one reading ' PARKAS , MIDDLE SIZE 5 ' with sizes ( See pictures ) & the second label giving instructions for wear & use of the wired hood & crutch strap. Hood has label giving nomenclature & maker name & date 1953 with broad arrow. Overall in excellent condition with a a couple of small holes to right sleeve & a small ink mark to left waist area .
British Civilian Chocolate/Gas Mask Box. Commercially produced dual purpose metal tin sold containing in this case 'Turnwrights Devon Cream Dainties'. Many variations of these tins can be found all of the same size & dimension but with different designs & colours relating to the product contained within. The commercial genius behind these innovative metal tins thought up the idea that once the product had been consumed (more often than not biscuits or chocolates) the empty box could be used as a gas mask container & a stronger alternative to the flimsy cardboard gas mask box of issue. This example has a brown coloured honeycomb type design on its outside with an advertisement for the chocolates on the inside of the lid. The metal catch is standard as with all these tins although the metal carrying handle on the top is unfortunately missing. Interesting Home Front item.
British Lieutenant Denim Overall Set 1940 Dated Used condition green British Army Denim Overalls being Denim Blouse & Trousers both still retaining their calico clothing labels & both dated 1940. These denims were intended for working & training in but were often worn in combat being lighter than the normal BD. This set came from the effects of a WW2 British officer with the shoulders on the Blouse bearing two officer rank pips totally untouched & wartime fitted on as found. Label on the Blouse is very worn out although parts of it can still be seen including some of the size markings (Size '9') & the date 1940. Buttons on the Blouse are of the revolving shank variety. Trousers retain their label which is clear & still legible being also a size '9' & made by 'The REGO Clothiers' in 1940. All buttons on the trousers are of pressed brass. A used set with no gaping holes or rips just light service wear & some soldierly dirt as would be expected.
British Victorian Sherwood Foresters (Notts & Derby) Other Ranks Home Service Helmet British Victorian Home Service helmet of the famous Sherwood Foresters (Notts & Derby Regiment) who were a line infantry regiment in existence for just under 90 years. In very clean condition this helmet has all brass fittings still firm with intact leather backed chinscales & rosette c/s posts to each side. The outer felt covering is free from moth with lower leather edging in good order. Interior of helmet has its original size adjustable leather sweatband with drawstring remaining & 1912 dated W /I D inspectors mark to underside. A makers label for ' J. Compton & Sons ' is partially intact with further large ink stamps giving a stores date of '7 14' ( July 1914 ). An attractive piece from the early British Army years.
British Victorian Wilkinson Sword Of Lord Ashburton , Hampshire Carabiniers A superb high quality Wilkinson made Victorian Cavalry sword of the Hampshire Carabiniers . With 1857 pattern honeysuckle hilt the guard incorporates the crowned cross carbines and device of the Hampshire Yeomanry (Carabiniers). Sword is serial numbered 35726 (6th April 1898), the left hand side of the blade has the same etched regimental device as on the guard with decorative foliage & HENRY WILKINSON PALL MALL LONDON maker logo. The right hand side of the blade is etched with the Victorian crowned Royal Coat of Arms and foliage, the letters AA surmounted by a Barons Coronet, and Royal Coat of Arms under which the words BY WARRANT with indented circular brass proof mark stamped HW. Complete in its brown leather field service scabbard with frog. Wilkinson records show that the sword was sold to Lord Ashburton on 6th April 1898 however it is interesting that the blade is etched A.A & not F.D. E which were the initials of Lord Ashburton . This would certainly imply that he bought the sword for a fellow officer & so further research would greatly enhance its history. Sword has survived with an immaculate blade & generally excellent condition throughout .
Bullet Holed ( Entry & Exit ) 1982 Falklands War Argentinian Netted Camouflage Helmet A bullet impact & exit damaged camouflage netted Argentinian combat helmet from the Falklands campaign with rosary beads from the personal possessions of an Argentinian soldier. This iconic combat helmet shows a bullet entry point to the front crown area with a larger exit hole to the rear from the same round. It is quite evident that upon entry & exit it has severed a portion of the string net on both sides with correlating bullet damage to the liner on the inside & also to its webbing straps. Helmet shell & liner are Argentinian produced with deeper seated chinstrap bales than the US issues. Helmet net displays a distinctive green to its unweathered areas when liner is lifted , this a textbook Argentinian issue net. Much weathering & heavy wear to chinstraps . Comes with the Rosary beads pictured which I am lead to believe were on personal issue to the troops.
Bump 10307 Trench Armour A rare & totally original complete set of WW1 German trench armour this being the second model coming into service not long after the introduction of the first model in 1916. An iconic piece of WW1 trench equipment these second types were a slight improvement on the first model allowing better freedom of movement around the armpit area in a firing position. Upon close examination the armour bears traces of its chemically blackened finish over which much of the factory applied field grey paint still remains. The lightly scaled finish of the metal shows only light corrosion in places this testament to the highly skilled heat treatment of the metal during its manufacture . The slightly raised medial ridge of the breast plate is another indication of its later type this being an improvement from the previous bulbous chest design. There are some batch stampings visible on the plates with a large stylised black painted symbol to the chest plate which appears to be the size marking of two. The slotted strap brackets to the chest plate are intact with its original webbing straps being held in place to the lower plates by the use of heavy staple stitches. The felt pads , intended to reduce noise, are attached by the same webbing straps with double rows of stitching. Overall a very rare piece to find and coming from the same excellent European collection as the example we sold recently .
Canadian Air Force Armourers Manual A very interesting WW2 manual from a Canadian Air Force Armourer entitled \' Armament Notes \' with \'Air Ministry\' to front & \'AAS Ontario Mountain View \' . Also marked to front \' FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY \' . Inside this thick manual are various printed notes & instructional line drawings on weaponry such as smallarms & grenades ( Thompson , Revolver , MiIls Bomb, Lee Enfield Rifle Etc ) as well as Aircraft equipment such as Tail Drift Sights , Anti Gas Equipment , Vickers Machine Gun , Cine Gun Cameras , Reflector Sights , 20mm Hispano cannon , Hand Operated Firing Mechanisms , a coloured ammunition markings chart, Air Sighting & loads more. A handwritten sticker is stuck to the front reading \' Armament Notes From R.WILSON one time CO of 238 ATC Dated about 1939-45 ? \' . No doubt kept as a memento of this mans war service. In very good condition.
Complete WW1 French 104th Artillery Regt. Officer Mannequin A complete WW1 mannequin of an officer from the French 104th Artillery regiment offered totally as seen & complete with the mannequin itself. This set comprises : 1 Artillery Adrian helmet 2.French Officers Four Pocket Tunic 3.Officers Red Piped Trousers 4. 1913 Pattern Officers Trench Boots 5. French Officers Belt & Shoulder Strap 6. Musette Bag 7. Spectacles Tunic is all originally badged with early type bullion embroidered cannetille regimental numbers on red patches with branch piping. To left arm are very neatly tailor applied inverted service chevrons with three bar rank to sleeve for Captain. All buttons are crossed cannons embossed for Artillery. Internally the jacket has buttoned flap pockets on each side with the left pocket having the faint remains of what appear to be the officers details. Having been together for a very long time the uniform matches in age & colour & has not suffered any moth or damage that I can see upon close inspection. Boots are of the 1913 pattern & in good used condition with original laces. Adrian helmet is untouched with Artillery badge original to it . With an ordinary other ranks chinstrap it was not uncommon to see this opted for by officers who may have preferred to not have the extra expense of purchasing a non standard one.
D Day British Veteran group : Medals,Paybook,Paperwork Etc. Nice group to a British infantry soldier who joined the Boy Service aged 14 in July 1935 & then served in various infantry regiments including 151 Parachute Battalion before ending up in the Hampshire Regiment & landing in the first wave of assault troops on Gold Beach on D Day 6th June 1944. After being in heavy action in Normandy (a bren gunner in a carrier platoon) for 38 days with little rest or sleep he suffered serious front line battle stress & was Court Martialled after one day being requested to join another section for further action & stating he was unable to do so. Various paperwork & reports by psychiatrists on his mental state detail all the above as a Pension Tribunal was held to assess his correct entitlement. These reports outline his service, dates of service & with which regiment from 10/7/1935 right through to 6/10/1946 & show him serving with the Hampshires from 12/4/44 to 8/3/1945. He also served in the Middle East & saw action in N.Africa prior to this. Included in this grouping are his \'45 Issued replacement AB64 Paybook, various period documentation on his pension appeal & service, his Soldiers Release Book, a letter from the Surrey branch of the British Legion , a letter from the Infantry Records office regards his being Discharged from the Royal Army Reserve & his medals. These are the 1939-45 Star, Africa Star, France & Germany Star, Defence Medal & War Medal. There is also some ephemera from after the war including photographs & newspaper cuttings involving him but on unrelated subjects. A fascinating & rare British infantryman group greatly enhanced by its D-Day connection. A true combat veteran.
D-Day US M1 Engineer Special Brigade Helmet Scarce WW2 US helmet bearing the painted emblem of the Engineer Special Brigade.These men landed in Normandy on D Day & were to act as Sappers & Mine Clearers. Due to the heavy German resistance they were forced to abandon their demolition mission & fight alongside their infantry comrades. This example has fixed bails with tan web chinstrap that is in good condition. The overall finish of the shell is of an aged dark olive green with the remains of the emblem visible on the front & overall aging to the exterior. Much of the paint on the rim has come off through use. Helmet displays stress fractures to its rear although one of the cracks may be battle damage being more of a small dent which has caused the metal to slightly split down near to its bottom rim. Helmet is minus its liner & the inside is well weathered. Rare helmet recovered from the St.Marie Du Mont area of Normandy.
Deactivated British Victorian MK1 Long Lee Rifle 1903 For sale to customers outside of the European Union. Probably the best example of the British Long Lee rifle that I have had the fortune to acquire this piece is still in its early pre charger loading configuration retaining magazine cut off plate, both volley sights & dust cover. An Enfield made example it is marked to wrist strap ' Enfield 1903 LE r ' . Unlike other examples encountered today this early piece is without the later charger loading bridge conversion & in this early format is now a rare rifle to find. In quite excellent condition it has most of its original blueing remaining to metal surfaces with original woodwork immaculate & showing only slight service use. Profusely inspection & 'Enfield' marked it has matching numbers to bolt & receiver & later South African issue markings. For Non EU Sales Only - however can be re-deactivated to the current EU specification. Please Email Before Making Purchase.
Deactivated US Vietnam Period M16A1 Rifle With Correct Sling For sale to customers outside the European Union only. An excellent condition M16A1 assault rifle as used in Vietnam by US forces. Unlike many other examples on the market this piece has no damage whatsoever & comes with its sling as shown. Introduced in the 1960s these had a high rate of fire when compared to the previous 30-06 chambered rifles & were greatly effective during the Vietnam war. This piece is in outstanding condition with no cracks or damage to the plastic & comes with original Vietnam era magazine & correct 'seatbelt' sling . With moving trigger & removeable magazine this is an exceptional example of this iconic weapon. For Non EU Sales Only. However can be re-deactivated to the current EU specification. Please email before making purchase.
Deactivated WW1 German G98 Rifle 1916 ( Pre EU/UK Deactivation ) For sale to customers outside the European Union- A 1916 dated G98 7.92mm rifle the standard issue rifle of the First world war German soldier . Well known for its power & long range accuracy in the trenches of WW1 its long length was , however, impractical in a close quarter combat situation. Marked to the receiver 'Spandau ' ( Prussian Spandau Arsenal ) with the clear date 1916 it has mostly matching numbers & comes complete with original cleaning rod. There is a Prussian inspection cypher stamped into the butt with the initials of 'EWB' handcarved into the wood next to it . I suspect done either by the German soldier who it was issued to or the British soldier who captured it ! Matching numbers are visible to the butt , bolt , bolt release catch , safety catch , barrel , receiver , magazine plate , trigger guard piece & front swivel band. The only parts that have a different number are one of the trigger guard screws & the H band which is still remarkably close at '21' & matches perfectly in age & wear to the rest of the rifle. It would not be remiss to deduce that this part was on the rifle when it was being used in WW1. The whole piece has clearly seen action in the trenches of WW1 with a nice age patina to the wood that has some very old usage scuffs & knocks in places. Metal parts are pitted in places this most noticeable on the bolt , receiver & H band . For Non EU Sales Only - however can be re-deactivated to the current EU specification. Please Email Before Making Purchase.
Deactivated WW2 German K98 Rifle With ZF41 Sniper Scope & Mounts For sale to customers outside of the European Union only. A WW2 German K98 rifle with original ZF41 scope & mounts .The near impossible to find rare side rail on this piece is a high quality reproduction., This K98 is in excellent condition with clear intact eagle & swastika waffenamt markings & 'byf41' manufacturer code to receiver indicating made by Mauser in 1941. Rifle has some matching numbers with eagle & swastika marking to butt & the letter 'H' for Heer indicating an army issue piece. The ZF41 scope was used with the K98 rifle & was popular with sharpshooters being seen much in use from 1941 onwards right up until the end of the war. Marked with its correct designation 'ZF41' it comes complete with waffenamt & serial number marked mount as well as both front & rear rain shields. Optics are good. Comes with UK certificate of deactivation . For Non EU Sales Only. Can be re-deactivated to the current EU specification. Please email before making purchase.
Deactivated WW2 German Matching Numbered Early \'0-Series\' & Walther Bannered P38 Pistol ( 1939/40 ) One of the rarer deactivated P38 pistols this is a matching numbered '0-series' example which was the first official P38 variation issued to the German forces between June 1939 & May 1940. Easily discernible by its serial number beginning with a 0 there are other early features of this pistol which differ from the later coded examples. Each waffenamt number code on this piece is '359' which is particular to this model & the lanyard loophole on the grip is rounded as opposed to the rectangular design on all models after this. This example is very well marked with the matching serial number 09645 to all parts other than the magazine & also has the Walther banner to left side of slide. Magazine is a correct waffenamt & 'P38v' marked wartime example. In generally very good condition it has a small spattering of pitting to the slide on left side just above the 'P38' marking. Both checquered grips undamaged. Capable of being cocked, stripped & dryfired it comes with Home Office certification of deactivation & is available for over 18 sale within the UK only. ***UK SALES ONLY , sorry cannot ship to Scotland or Ireland***
Deactivated WW2 German MG13 Machine Gun A very nice & profusely eagle & swastika marked example of the German MG13 machine gun. The MG13 was introduced into service in 1930 & was the standard German light machine gun until superceded by the MG34 & MG42. When withdrawn from service in 1934 most MG13s were sold to Portugal & restamped with the Portuguese crest however those not sold were placed into storage & later saw use by second line German forces in WW2. This is a fantastic example coming complete with its folding butt stock & leather clamshell shoulder pads. It is clearly dated 1938 on the receiver & also on the bipod. Profusely marked in many places with the German eagle & swastika waffenamt stampings it comes with a 1938 dated 25 round box magazine. Of old specification deactivation it is capable of being cocked & dryfired . Comes with Home Office certificate of deactivation . UK SALES ONLY ***Sorry cannot ship to Scotland or Ireland***
Deactivated WW2 German MG42 Machine Gun With Anti Aircraft Sight & 1944 Dated Wooden Butt If you are looking for that fantastic one off MG42 to compliment your collection then this one may be for you ! Deactivated WW2 German 7.92mm MG42 machine gun with anti aircraft sight & rarely encountered three letter maker code , waffenamt markings & 1944 date stamped into the wooden butt. Butt marking appears to be 'hvq 1944 WAa434' . This fantastic example also has the reddish brown bakelite grips & maker code as well as markings to left side of 'dfb' for the maker ' Gustloff-Werke Waffenwerk Suhl ' . This three letter code is seen on various parts of the weapon along with eagle & swastika waffenamt markings. Coming with its desirable rear anti aircraft sight it can be cocked , partially stripped & dryfired . Overall condition is excellent. Comes with UK certificate of deactivation & is available for sale to over 18s within the UK only. ***UK sales only excluding Scotland or Ireland***
Deactivated WW2 German MP44 Assault Rifle 1945 The iconic image of the late war German soldier fighting in the Ardennes 44/45 or the ruins of Berlin would undoubtedly depict him armed with the almost mythical MP44. Developed by Germany during WW2 it is considered by most to be the very first modern assault rifle. This rare 1945 dated example is in good condition with German eagle & swastika waffenamt stampings & 'Stg44' designation to left side . With mostly matching numbers the serial number & date marking ' 7067 6f / 45' st are stamped to the right side. The same number of '7067' can be seen on the wooden butt & the butt collar where it meets the rear of the breech. It is also stamped on to the rear left side main body . The maker code of 'clc' is present to front sight. Magazine is a correct wartime 'MP44' marked example .Sight is adjustable with fire selector switch also moveable. This is a 1989 old spec deactivation capable of being cocked & dryfired. It also field strips. Available for UK over 18 sales only & comes with UK certificate of deactivation. ***UK SALES ONLY , sorry cannot ship to Scotland or Ireland***
Deactivated WW2 US Garand Rifle 1943 ( Pre EU/UK Specification ) For sale to customers outside the European Union- Deactivated WW2 US Garand rifle with moving cocking handle. This is the classic weapon of the WW2 GI from the sands of Iwo Jima to the beaches & Hedgerows of Normandy! An overall well service used Garand rifle it has a good age patina to its wood & much of the original factory finish to metal surfaces. This Springfield Armoury made example has the serial number on breech of 1709820 dating it to around the mid 1943 period. It is likely that , as with most others offered for sale, it has seen use in the postwar years . Ideal for display with your GI mannequin ! For Non EU Sales Only - however can be re-deactivated to the current EU specification. Please Email Before Making Purchase.
Early British 1907 Pattern Hooked Quillon Bayonet & Mk1 Matching Scabbard Rare & highly desirable early WW1 British bayonet being the hooked quillon style with Mk1 Scabbard. The 1907 Pattern bayonet was for use with the MkIII Lee Enfield Rifle & its earliest examples were produced with the hooked quillon as seen here. As of 1913 the quillons were ordered removed & hence surviving examples are very hard to find. This one recently surfaced out of the woodwork & is complimented by still having its matching Mk 1 scabbard. Wooden grips are in excellent condition not being oily or damaged & the pommel is marked to the 4th Battalion, Rifle Brigade reading ' 4. R.B. ' & the number '751' which is also on the scabbard throat. Blade is maker marked' SANDERSON' & has an acceptance stamp of '10 09' with also the ER cipher & the pattern date of '1907'. Exterior of bayonet is in superb condition with some minor surface aging to the blade. Black scabbard is stamped with numbers ' 751' on its upper throat matching the numbers on the pommel & making it a nice matching set. Leather body of the scabbard is clean & extends down its whole length with a metal tip strengthening the bottom as is typical of Mk1 scabbard manufacture. Markings against the rear seam are on one side the view codes & the other 'H.G.R 09' (1909) matching the date on the bayonet. A very nice piece of World War 1 soldiers weaponry & very hard to find in this condition.
Early Untouched WW1 M15 French Infantry Adrian Helmet With Abbeville Soldiers Nametag To Liner A wonderful M15 Adrian helmet from the early war period in the first grey blue factory paint finish that predated those of 1916. This totally untouched \'sleepy\' piece sums up the iconic \'Poilu\' of 1915 & is complete with its original chinstrap & intact liner system. Inspection of the underside of the liner also reveals a paper tag with name & regiment written on in hand by the soldier himself. This label appears to read \' R.Bodelot , Commission Regiment **** , Abbeville \' Abbeville is of course the well known WW1 place 30km from Amiens . Commission Regiment translates to \' Regimental Commission\' so may refer to his regimental enrolment the date of which or number now sadly illegible. The flaming grenade infantry badge to front is 100% original to the helmet & the construction determined by the rivet style to each side leads me to believe this is an example made by \'Reflex\' .The chinstrap is totally intact & supple . A super example .
Early WW2 British Camouflage Netted Middlesex Regiment Mk1 Helmet A recently surfaced & heavily battle worn early British Mk1 helmet of the Middlesex Regiment coming complete as found with its originally fitted camouflage net. This is one of the earlier period steel rimmed MK1 helmets refurbished by fitment of the newer MK1 lining & chinstrap before the introduction of the MK1* & the mass produced MkII . Existing stocks were ordered to be used up in late 1937 however these were still worn in the beginning stages of WW2. The helmet insignia is still partially visible with yellow half of the red & yellow flash still very much evident. The top securing screw is totally undisturbed & the net still tight to the helmet. Underside of helmet shell bears the early heat mark of ' HS 5' for the firm Hadfield Steel of Sheffield.
Early WW2 French \'Airaile\' Aviators Helmet 1940 A scarce example of the French 'Airaile' flying helmet which dates from the pre & early war period. This helmet was in use The French air force played an active role during the Battle of France in 1940 often attacking German troops as they advanced & causing considerable losses to the Germans. Casualties were high with 20 French bombers shot down in May whilst attacking the German crossings across the Meuse. Made by E. Gueneau & Cie of Paris this helmet is made from a hard shell covered in polished leather with soft padded leather flaps extending below this to house Gosport tubes or radio receivers. There are press studded goggle straps to the rear of the helmet with a laced leather liner system to the interior. Used during the 1930s and into the early part of WW2 by the French Air Force, Free French and Paratroop units. An excellent example of this interesting helmet
Ex Baldwin Collection & Published WW1 German M1908 Drivers Field Service Cap A very rare M1908 Prussian Drivers Field Service Cap formally from the famous Michael Baldwin collection & double page featured on pages 78 & 79 of Baldwins much praised work \' Feldzug 1914 Volume 1 \' . These peaked caps were worn by Medical troops such as stretcher bearers & field ambulance drivers , or wagon drivers of infantry sections. Made from tightly woven green grey \'grundtuch\' it is well worn & has a thick heavy weight lining of once white cotton. The leather peak & strap are black . At the rear of the cap it is apparent that the size has been altered quite possibly due to reissue with a small field grey patch professionally applied. With todays market abound with fakes of the M1908 Drivers cap this is a totally original example almost imposible to find .
Falklands War 1982 , Argentinian Army Camouflage Helmet A classic Falklands war used Argentinian army helmet which was brought back from the Islands as a souvenir after the campaign. This helmet is typical of the many seen in period photographs being worn by the Argentinian conscripts with winter parka hoods as camouflage covers as seen here. The ' Ejercito Argentina ' clothing label on the hood can be seen to the interior of the helmet with extensive weathering , grime & wear to its outside. The thick black rubber band has always been in place on the helmet & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the covered areas underneath it. Helmet shell is an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own in roughly equal quantities by their forces. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian refurbishment to the liner band with new rivets & heavy wear inside. A textbook one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield with an illegible roughly written in to the helmets interior. I recently purchased this helmet from a Falklands war veteran who brought it back from the campaign & had kept it in the bottom of his old kitbag in the loft until now.
Falklands War 1982 - Argentinian Camouflage Helmet An interesting Argentinian camouflage helmet brought back as a souvenir from the Falklands campaign . This striking helmet has a camouflage cover made from the ERDL camouflage army shirt & shows much wear to the inside & out. Held tightly in place by a cut rubber band the cover has some holes & is stained & grubby from use. The exterior of the Argentinian made shell can be seen in places underneath the cover with its rough textured green finish. Argentinian forces used two types of M1 shell , those that came from American surplus stocks & those that were made by Argentina themselves. The latter are recognisable from the US made shells by a few minor details such as a slightly more pronounced lip & deeper fitted chinstrap bales. As is typical on Falklands used helmets the metal fittings of the chinstrap have rusted . Liner displays the typical Argentinian depot refurbishing of replacement liner rivets as well as a green leather sweatband to the interior. A 'been there' battle worn helmet in an interesting camouflage cover configuration. This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Army Airborne Artillery Unit Camouflage Helmet With Para Liner & Goggles If you are looking for an Argentinian helmet that has clearly seen heavy use in the bitter fighting of the Falklands campaign then this one may be for you. A very well worn Falklands conflict bringback this helmet has its original well worn & frayed ERDL camouflage cover with original black rubber band & para liner. These para liners are known to have been used by Airborne Artillery Units fighting near Port Stanley. This helmet also comes as seen with its Argentinian issue goggles. The helmet shell itself has had repairs with tape to one of its chinstrap lugs whilst the other one is minus. The edges of the camouflage cover have had a soldier adapted tightening cord fitted this being visible within the shell itself. The one remaining para chinstrap is Argentinian rivetted with rust to the metal fittings & heavy fraying around the loop. The American \'Westinghouse\' produced para liner has had Argentinian depot refurbishment with two coats of green paint to the exterior. Goggles & dressing are correct Argentinian issue with the wording \' FRAVIDA No109 INDUSTRIA ARGENTINA \' to rubber of the goggles. There is a name to the inside sponge of the goggles so a possibility of research . All items coming recently from a private collection as brought back from the Falklands campaign in 1982.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Army Helmet A classic Falklands war used Argentinian army helmet which was brought back from the Islands as a souvenir after the campaign. This helmet is typical of the many seen in period photographs being worn by the Argentinian conscripts with winter parka hoods as camouflage covers as seen here. The \' Ejercito Argentina \' clothing label on the hood can be seen to the interior of the helmet with extensive weathering , grime & wear to its outside. The black rubber band has always been in place on the helmet & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the covered areas underneath it. Helmet shell appears to be an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own , in great quantities by their forces. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian refurbishment to the liner band rivets & the band itself is made from green leather as is commonly seen. A textbook one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield, the fate of its previous owner is unknown. This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Army Helmet An Argentinian army helmet from the Falklands campaign of 1982 brought back as a souvenir by a British serviceman. Helmet shell is Argentinian made with deeper set chinstrap brackets & pronounced front lip , the paint finish is in rough green with some rust bleed coming through as is always seen on Argentinian helmets from this campaign. A brush painted marking of 'B' under a half moon appears to inside crown. Liner has soldiers name which appears to read ' GORZELANY ALLIANDAO ' lending itself to research. The 'ad hoc' construction of the liner is typical of Argentinian examples with all manner of materials used in their construction. A ' been there' helmet the fate of the soldoer who wore it as yet unknown. This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Camouflage Cover Helmet With Para Liner If you are looking for one iconic example of an Argentinian infantry helmet this superb ' been in the thick of it ' recently acquired example may be for you. Typical of Argentinian Infantry regiments the green helmet cover has been fitted around the shell with rubber inner tube used as a securing band. The cover is an interesting variation not made of a parka hood but more likely from the material of a sleeping bag outer. . Totally original to the helmet this has always been in place & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the unexposed areas when rubber band is lifted. Helmet shell is an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own in roughly equal quantities ( Around 50%) . Webbing straps very typically showing heavy wear with hook end minus. Helmet liner is a para type & shows typical Argentinian depot features such as green vinyl sweatband & non American rivets. There is a horizontal blue bar to the rear of the liner. A classic one look Argentinian helmet that has come straight from the battlefield of the Falklands Islands.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Camouflage Helmet With R.I.25 Interest A well worn Argentinian combat helmet brought back from the Falklands campaign by a British soldier in 1982. This helmet recently came to me via a private source & is presented completely as found , uncleaned & just as it was brought back. On this example we can see the ex American stocks camouflage Mitchell cover fitted onto the helmet with a thick black rubber band holding it in place. Careful lifting of the band enables us to see the discolouration comparison due to weathering on the cover. Known to have been used by Argentinian troops many of these were purchased by soldiers of RI25 ( Infantry Regiment 25 ) from the army surplus store \' Charlies Surplus \' prior to Falklands deployment. Lifting the inside tongues of the cover a cross can be seen marked onto the material this applied by the US & indicating obsolete stocks. Much engrained dirt & wear can be seen to its outside. Chinstraps are both of typical Argentinian depot refurb standard with rivets & heavy wear to each side. Liner is well worn with the usual rusty metal clips & fittings typical of Falklands recovered helmets. An iconic piece which was most likely worn by a member of R.I.25. C Company of RI 25 fought at Goose Green & was considered an elite formation which had received commando training.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Camouflage Netted Helmet A rare Argentinian camouflage helmet with distinctive cover which attributable to Infantry Reg 25. This regiment were the first unit of the Argentine Army to set foot on Malvinas territory & were in combat throughout most of the campaign. This Argentinian produced helmet & liner has a heavily weathered American \'Mitchell\' camouflage cover which has an ink marked \'X\' to the underside of one of its tongues. The I.R.25 purchased a large number of these covers from a surplus shop in Argentina & all have the black X indicating out of service by the US . On top of this is a thin gauge (faded in places) string net with black rubber band around its circumference. Both chinstraps are present & again heavily weathered. Liner is an Argentinian produced model with brown leather sweatband that bears the distinctive Argentinian marking \'FM\' of \'Direccion General De Fabricaciones Militares\' . A rare helmet & one that has undoubtedly seen much action. This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Combat helmet A classic example of an Argentinian steel combat helmet brought back from the Islands after the 1982 conflict. This helmet displays very typical attributes of an Argentinian helmet of the period with thick granulated dark green camouflage paint to exterior of the shell & the distinctive reed green paint left untouched to the inside. The green vinyl type chinstraps are again typical of Argentinian adaptation with a crude fastening hook to left side & a mixture of stainless steel & steel to the other side. The crudely rivetted liner is again distinctive with liner cradle being of the striped multi coloured webbing with the same chinstrap green vinyl type material used for the headband. Heavy wear is visible to the lining & to the helmet overall. No doubt one that , by its appearance , saw much use in the Falklands campaign & a fine example of the vast array of crude construction techniques so typical of Argentinian combat helmets in use during this campaign.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Helmet 1982 If you are looking for one iconic example of an Argentinian infantry helmet this superb \' been in the thick of it \' recently acquired example may be for you. Typical of the conscripts of the Argentinian Infantry regiments the green hood from the winter parka has been fitted around the shell with rubber inner tube used as a securing band. Interestingly the green hood cover is of a slightly thinner material than those normally encountered perhaps from the lightweight issue. Totally original to the helmet this has always been in place & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the unexposed areas underneath the rubber band. Helmet shell is an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own in roughly equal quantities ( Around 50%) . Webbing straps very typically showing heavy wear but both hook & eye intact. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian features to the liner with ad hoc rivet placement from Argentinian depot refurbishment. A classic one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield of the Falklands Islands.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Marine Infantry Camouflage Helmet A battlefield recovered Argentinian Marine infantry helmet with camouflage cover. This iconic helmet has the Marine cover made from Argentine ERDL fabric Marine camouflage uniform & has had British Royal Marine white Arctic camouflage tape applied to the inside of the shell. This is another well used , well worn helmet indicative of the hard fighting that took place on the Falklands. There is quite alot of writing on the interior of the shell underneath the tape certainly worthy of further research. The tape appears to have been applied to hold the underside edges of the cover in place. The liner displays again ad hoc Argentinian refurbishment with a mixture of different rivets securing the cradle in place. A very interesting battlefield worn Argentinian combat helmet . This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Marine Infantry Camouflage Helmet A battlefield recovered Argentinian Marine infantry helmet with fitted camouflage cover. This iconic helmet has the Marine cover made from Argentine Marine ERDL shirt material & is of multi piece construction made to fit the helmet. It shows very heavy wear with dirt & grime engrained into the helmet typical of those that saw prolonged action in the hard fought Falklands campaign. The liner is well worn with a large 'B' drawn on the top of the helmet & faint traces of a name to the underside of the webbing yoke. A fabulous battlefield worn Argentinian combat helmet becoming very hard to find in this untouched 'brought back' condition. This helmet comes from a recently rediscovered private collection I have just purchased of Argentinian items that were gathered from Falklands veterans in the 1980s' & 1990s'.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Named Combat Helmet An Argentinian combat helmet with what appears to be an ornately written name & rank to the dome of the shell ( See pictures ) . This very well used helmet has seen harsh combat service with much of the rough green sawdust mixed non reflective exterior camouflage paint worn away. The shell is a good example of old American surplus stocks used by Argentinian forces , these were acquired & refurbished with repairs to straps & fittings as is seen in many of the examples used in the campaign. Both long & short webbing chinstraps are still present with rusted fittings typical of the sea salt prevailing conditions encountered on the Islands. Liner is also very well used with repairs to the webbing straps & headband in places. A well used helmet that do doubt saw action during the campaign.
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Netted Camouflage Bringback Helmet A rare opportunity to own a piece of history from the Falklands war of 1982 this an Argentinian soldiers netted camouflage helmet with provenance from the Battle of Goose Green. Helmet is an Argentinian depot made piece with rare 'FM' mark to underside of front lip for . In a typical rough green textured paint finish it has a fitted green net which is the textbook Argentinian issue as used during that campaign. A thick rubber band holds it in place & still present is an Argentinian bandage. I have not added anything to this helmet it is as was brought back by a British soldier after the conflict. The helmet liner also has the 'FM' mark to leather band of the Argentinian depot. Around 50% of helmets used by Argentinian forces were made by themselves with the other half having been purchased from surplus American army stocks. Both chinstraps are present & as is typical with all Falklands helmets show rust. With information gained from the helmet I will provide details of its provenance to the purchaser. Now becoming very hard to source !
Falklands War 1982 Argentinian PM (Military Police) Helmet Rare Argentinian Military Police helmet brought back from the Falkland Islands after the conflict. These helmets are seen being worn by Argentine personnel around Port Stanley & are distinctive in their white paint with large black band & \'PM \' initials to front. This helmet has seen much wear with chips to the paint & evidence of their being another previous white paint layer underneath this one. There is , as with most of these helmets . rust in places & only a part of one side of the chinstrap remaining. Liner has the same \' PM\' paint scheme with most of the liner system now minus. Overall a rare helmet from one of the few Police personnel involved in the campaign. This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Battle Damaged Argentinian Army Helmet A 'straight from the battlefield' Argentinian combat helmet that has battle damage to the front right of the shell & the liner. Helmet was originally a fully netted helmet this now visible around the base of the helmet extending where it is fitted underneath & around the chinstrap brackets. The shell is an Argentinian depot made example with lower fitted chinstrap brackets than the American versions & with a slightly more protruding front lip. Liner has the number '28' to top & has the familiar crude rivetting holding the webbing in place. The distinctive green leatherette type headband is also very typical. Displaying heavy wear throughout & a timeless piece of Falklands war history. This helmet comes from a recently rediscovered private collection I have just purchased of Argentinian items that were gathered from Falklands veterans in the 1980s' & 1990s'.
Falklands War 1982 Named Argentinian Army Helmet An iconic Argentinian soldiers helmet worn during the Falklands campaign & brought back by a British soldier as a souvenir at the end of hostilities. This helmet is typical of those seen in wear by the conscripted soldiers who fought as infantry during this campaign with the green parka hood being utilised as a camouflage cover. The black rubber band was a common method of holding them in place & is seen on most but not all helmets used there. Upon lifting of the band the difference in colour fading due to heavy weathering is immediately apparent with wear & what appears to be some rust staining in places. Helmet liner is typical of an Argentinian reworked example with ad hoc rivetting of the replacement white vinyl liner system evident . The name \' SEGOVIA\' can be seen on the underside of the central yoke. One end of the chinstrap has a hook replacement this is totally period & very typical of that found on Argentinian helmets. A combat veteran & iconic Falklands war piece.
Falklands War 1982 Named Argentinian Army Helmet With Cover An Argentinian combat helmet from the Falklands campaign this piece with a camouflage green cover made from shirt material. Many different types of camouflage cover can be found on these combat helmets ranging from the very standard green parka hood to those camouflage covers made from shirts used by the Marines & the army. This example is one of shirt material , camouflage cover converted & cut to fit the helmet. It was in place right through the conflict & displays typical wear & fraying with some dark staining in places. To the inside of the shell can be seen the yellow painted number '155 ' with some green paint marking. Exactly the same marks & number appear on the front of the liner leaving no doubt that they have always been together with the same soldier. The liner displays typical Argentinian refurbishment with the name of 'Pagnotta' & the class number ' SC/62 ' . There is also some other writing written on the liner ' MARINO'... please see images. An interesting helmet & another veteran of the South Atlantic.
Falklands War 1982 Rare Argentinian Medics Helmet A rare Argentinian medics helmet from the Falklands war .. clearly original & offered as it was brought back from the campaign. This helmet displays to its exterior a very rough green overpaint with four medics Red Cross roundels to the helmets sides. There are some considerable wear scars & abrasion to the exterior paint with age yellowing to the roundels. Interior of the US made shell shows typical swivel bales with one of these crudely resoldered into position. The handwritten number \'12\' is visible to dome. Helmet liner is well worn with a name written to the underside of the webbing cradle yoke. A very rare helmet . This item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Falklands War 1982 Worn British 9th Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers Beret With Letter Of Provenance ... This well weathered British Airborne beret comes with a letter of provenance dated 27th April 1988 from a former member of 9 Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers stating that he wore it during operations in the Falklands campaign in April/June 1982 as well as on two seperate tours of Northern Ireland whilst attached to A COY 2 PARA from Pathfinder Platoon where , incidentally , he was still serving now as a Warrant Officer at the time of typing the letter. The beret is a classic Victors produced example as worn from the late 1970s until the mid 1990s . These berets were privately purchased by soldiers & had a distinctively small crown. The black painted Royal Engineers badge is as it came on the beret. In April 1982, 9 PARA squadron R.E embarked for the Falkland Islands as part of 5 Infantry Brigade. In true sapper tradition, the squadron was involved in the thick of the action from clearing minefields to repairing bridges.
Falklands War Argentinian Helmet ( British Soldier Bringback ) Interesting captured Argentinian helmet from the Falklands war having been brought back by a British serviceman as a souvenir. Helmet is of the M1 style with the distinct olive green cover & rubber band as often seen in images of ground strewn abandoned Argentinian equipment in the aftermath of the Falklands conflict. The familiar green helmet cover is the issue parka hood with an Argentinian military clothing label still present to its underside ( see images ) . Much weathering is evident to the cover this being very clear when the rubber band is lifted to see the original colour still underneath. Green fibre glass liner is one of several patterns associated with Argentinian issue & embossed on the leather headband with FM for the Argentinian Fabricacions Militares. The first Argentinian helmets were US surplus however they are known to have produced both shells and liners themselves. A soldiers name is scrawled onto the inside of one of the web straps. A well worn & iconic battlefield worn combat helmet that could no doubt tell the story of a short but brutal conflict .
Falklands War Argentinian Helmet ( British Soldier Bringback ) Interesting captured Argentinian helmet from the Falklands war having been brought back by a British serviceman as a souvenir. Helmet is of the M1 style with the distinct olive green cover & rubber band as often seen in images of ground strewn abandoned Argentinian equipment in the aftermath of the Falklands conflict. The familiar green helmet cover is the Argentinian issue parka hood held in place by a black rubber band. Much weathering is evident to the cover this being very clear when the rubber band is slightly lifted to see the discolouration comparison of the fabric underneath. Inside of the shell there is much wear with the fabric colour fresher in the non weather exposed areas. Rust bleed stains around the inside edge have come through the cover from the shell. The name 'Freire' can be faintly discerned scribbled onto the inside of the shell along with a handpainted number '63' Liner is one of several patterns associated with Argentinian issue the rough fitting of the securing studs around its circumference being very typical. The first Argentinian helmets were US surplus however they are known to have produced both shells and liners themselves this being such an example. Traces of a pen scrawled name are to be seen on the outside shell with initials to the leather headband. A well worn & iconic battlefield worn combat helmet that could no doubt tell the story of a short but brutal conflict .
Father & Sons War Service Document Grouping ( RAF & Welch Regiment ) Document group to a father ( John Tudor Hughes) & son ( Bernard David Tudor Hughes ) both of whom saw war service the father in World War One as an NCO with the Royal Welch Fusiliers then as an officer in the Welch Regiment as of 1917. He continued on & saw service in WW2 finally being discharged from the RWF in 1948. Much paperwork including his May 1917 Temporary Commission relates to his service & amongst other related documentation present is a Welch Regiment stamped Regimental Record outlining his postings at the age of 25 from 1915 as an Orderly Room Sergeant with the 20th RWF then Drill Sergeant with the 63rd Training Battalion. In April 1917 he was commissioned into the Welch Regiment & in May 1917 posted to the 51st Bn Welsh Regiment as Platoon Commander & Acting Company Commander. During WW2 he served as a Major in an Army Records office to which a reference written by a Colonel refers in 1948. Finally his Officers Release Book details his release from Military service in December 1948. His son joined the RAF in 1941 & became a fully trained pilot as of 11/12/1942. In November 1942 he completed , as a Sergeant Pilot , the Naval Aviators Course of the United States Navy as a certificate from a Naval Air Station in Florida testifies. His Royal Air Force Airmans Service & Pay Book is present & dates from 1941. Detailing his training & medical examinations it shows also his entitlement to the 1939-45 Star, Italy Star & Defence medal ( Most probably also war Medal). His last posting is shown as being as a Flight Lieutenant with 294 Squadron ( Iraq & Persia ) as of December 1945. Much paperwork related to his RAF service including wedding photographs, two Dinner Menus from his visit to the USA in 1942. A Certificate of Competence inside his paybook gives his qualification to ferry the Wellington Bomber & also Warwicks. There are also some HMSO publications relating to the RAF including the 'ABC of the RAF'. Certainly a thoroughly researchable group.
Feldzug , Volume 3 1916 - Michael Baldwin The now out of print bible of 1916 Imperial German militaria this hard back, large format book with over 200 pages continues to examine and explore at great depth the German Soldier of WW1. 1916 saw huge changes and developments in the appearance of the German Army, such as the partial introduction of factory produced steel helmets and the wide spread use of the practical and better suited to combat bluse. Although radical changes were afoot, the tradition rich Kaiser’s Army continued to issue the famous pickelhaube, although details were to develop and change. All these fascinating details are covered within this work. In depth and well thought out text will accompany highly detailed close up photographs that will bring this painstakingly produced volume to life.
Feldzug 1915 Book - Michael Baldwin Volume 2 in the five volume series ‘Feldzug’. This edition captures the uniforms, headdress and equipment of the German Soldier on the front line in 1915. Rare and elusive garments, pickelhaubes as well as weapons have been photographed in high resolution and display in close up, large format to aid the collector in increasing their knowledge and authenticating these historic artefacts. This work is over 200 pages, hard back and includes informative text and wonderful period images to compliment the many previously unseen items. The highlight of the book may well be the detailed look at the experimental armoured face masks of the Gaede Helmet and the Shutzshild (Elephant Face), it leaves the reader looking forward to the next publication Feldzug 1916 when Steel Helmets are introduced and thus open up a whole new field of history to explore.
Feldzug, Volume 2 1915 - Michael Baldwin Volume 2 in the five volume series ‘Feldzug’. This edition captures the uniforms, headdress and equipment of the German Soldier on the front line in 1915. Rare and elusive garments, pickelhaubes as well as weapons have been photographed in high resolution and display in close up, large format to aid the collector in increasing their knowledge and authenticating these historic artefacts. This work is over 200 pages, hard back and includes informative text and wonderful period images to compliment the many previously unseen items. The highlight of the book may well be the detailed look at the experimental armoured face masks of the Gaede Helmet and the Shutzshild (Elephant Face), it leaves the reader looking forward to the next publication Feldzug 1916 when Steel Helmets are introduced and thus open up a whole new field of history to explore.
Field Marshall Henry Maitland Wilson Attributed Binoculars This pair of time forgotten binoculars bear the engraved name \' CAPT. H.M.WILSON - RIFLE BRIGADE \' & become a fascinating slice of history when the career of the man who once owned them is researched. With the maker name \' J.WICH PARIS\' & \'MERCEDES\' they have survived in excellent condition & are still serviceable as an acceptable pair of binoculars. Field Marshall Henry Maitland Wilson , 1st Baron Wilson GCB,GBE & DSO was a senior British army officer who saw active service in the Second Boer War & in the First World war at The Somme & Passchendaele. Educated at Eton & Sandhurst he was commissioned into the Rifle Brigade as a second lieutenant on 10th March 1900. He came up through the ranks & was promoted to Captain on 2nd April 1908. He reached substantive rank of Major in September 1915 & was sent to the Western Front, France in December. He became General Staff Officer of the 41st Division on The Somme & of the XIX Corps at Passchendaele. His career goes on until the 1960s the details of which can be found without any difficulty via an internet search.
Framed & Signed Irvin Parachute Piece From DFC Winner John Bentley Beard , Hurricane Fighter Pilot 249 Sqn RAF. A framed piece of April 1940 dated Irvin parachute signed by the DFC decorated Hurricane fighter pilot John Bentley-Beard who baled out of his aircraft twice during the Battle of Britain . Rare in itself the Irvin parachute piece with a date of April 1940 predates the Battle of Britain & thus it is interesting to note the ' IRVIN AIR-CHUTE' nomenclature as well as the inspection dates of 22 FEB, 11 APR 1940 & 9 APR 1940. Handwritten on to the fabric is the dedication ' Saved me 7th Sept Hurricane 2440 and 25th Oct Hurricane 3615 1940 ' with his signature & squadron underneath this. It is not implausible to conclude that this is a piece of the actual parachute which saved his life on at least one of the occasions although sadly I cannot ,of course, guarantee it! This fighter pilots history is well recorded having started with 609 Sqn in December 1939. Moving to 249 Sqn he was attributed six victories in September 1940 before being shot down on the 7th September by British anti-aircraft fire. Lightning unfortunately struck twice on October 25th when he was shot down over Kent by ME109s & obliged to bale out again spending time recouperating in Pembury Hospital before returning to the Sqn in December. A DFC winner , he was also awarded the Air Force Cross for his work in the armament field .
Framed WW1 RFA Gunners Grouping of Badges,Insignia Etc Interesting grouping of First World War badges, buttons, insignia & other memorabilia relating to one mans service in the Royal Field Artillery & mounted onto a board as a souvenir piece. Included in the group are his early brass cap badge with rotating wheel, RFA Shoulder Titles & Cloth Flashes, RFA buttons, Crossed Flags, .303 Charger Clip & his Queen Mary Gift Tin. Also is a humorous Xmas Card with a small piece of shrapnel mounted onto the front of it the personal significance of which we'll sadly never know. The items have been mounted with wire onto a blue cloth ( now faded) backing then onto a board underneath with a glass wooden framed cover allowing it to be hung from the wall. Nice personal souvenir to one mans service in the Royal Field Artillery during the First World War.
Free French Tropical Helmet 1940 With Souvenir Writing By Free French Soldier A British made 1940 dated Tropical helmet of the Free French forces who were heavily involved in the British controlled operations against Italian forces in Libya & Egypt. Later the same year they joined the British in defeating the Vichy forces in Syria & Lebanon. Issued by the British , this helmet retains its paper manufacturer label from \' Helmets Ltd \' with the date \'1940\' . Insignia is the correct brass \' Colonial\' anchor specifically intended for the tropical helmet. A soldier has drawn the Cross of Lorraine symbol of the Free French with the placename \'Liberville\' referring to the November 1940 Battle of Gabon in Central Africa. Here , Free French Forces took the colony of Gabon along with its capital Libreville from Vichy French forces. It is interesting to note that the British agreed to provide naval support to the Free French who were a force comprised of French Legionnaires , Senegalese & Cameroonian troops. An interesting part of Free French history .
French Colonial Infantry ( Marines ) Uniform Grouping With \'Battle For France\' 502nd Tank Regiment Interest A rare French \'Grande Tenue\' ( Best Dress ) uniform grouping to a Colonial infantry officer comprising Kepi , tunic , epaulettes , dress belt & trousers . These well respected elite troops are regarded as Marines in the French military although not directly attached to the French Navy. It is interesting to note that the Kepi has a gold embossed tailor name \' Loux\' to the sweatband & a unit marking \' 502 Chars d\'Assault \' this most likely being the tailor for that unit & this Colonial Infantry officer being attached to them at the time & having his Kepi made by their tailor \' Loux\' . The 502nd are a famous french tank regiment that saw action during the Battle for France in 1939 . The tunic here is made by a Brest tailor with name label dated 1939 so it is almost certain that this officer took part in the Battle for France at that time. This whole uniform grouping dates from the early thirties with the nine gilt anchor buttoned tunic being of the model 1933. The epaulettes are in beautiful gold bullion with the dress belt having double anchor gilted buckles. Kepi has , of course, the bullion embroidered anchor to fron for Colonial officer & three gold rank braids to crown signifying rank of Major. The elongated style of the Hungarian knot to top of the Kepi denotes early thirties manufacture still using the earlier burlap lining to interior sides. This uniform was well looked after in the postwar years as all components are in immaculate condition with just some minor service wear typical of an officers best dress. There is one small moth nip to side of Kepi.
French Colonial Infantry ( Marines ) Uniform Grouping With \'Battle For France\' 502nd Tank Regiment Interest A rare French 'Grande Tenue' ( Best Dress ) uniform grouping to a Colonial infantry officer comprising Kepi , tunic , epaulettes , dress belt & trousers . These well respected elite troops are regarded as Marines in the French military although not directly attached to the French Navy. It is interesting to note that the Kepi has a gold embossed tailor name ' Loux' to the sweatband & a unit marking ' 502 Chars d'Assault ' this most likely being the tailor for that unit & this Colonial Infantry officer being attached to them at the time & having his Kepi made by their tailor ' Loux' . The 502nd are a famous french tank regiment that saw action during the Battle for France in 1939 . The tunic here is made by a Brest tailor with name label dated 1939 so it is almost certain that this officer took part in the Battle for France at that time. This whole uniform grouping dates from the early thirties with the nine gilt anchor buttoned tunic being of the model 1933. Two medal ribbons adorn the breast these being the Colonial medal & the Croix De Guerre. The epaulettes are in beautiful gold bullion with the dress belt having double anchor gilted buckles. Kepi has , of course, the bullion embroidered anchor to front for Colonial officer & three gold rank braids to crown signifying rank of Major. The elongated style of the Hungarian knot to top of the Kepi denotes early thirties manufacture still using the earlier burlap lining to interior sides. This uniform was well looked after in the postwar years as all components are in immaculate condition with just some minor service wear typical of an officers best dress. There is one small moth nip to side of Kepi.
French M1872/1874 Dragoon Helmet ( As Worn August 1914 ) A magnificent French Dragoon helmet of the M1872/1874 pattern for other ranks. These were still being worn in August 1914 by the troops of the French Dragoons who were at that early war time time engaged in reconnaissance , guarding the flanks & covering the infantry as well as liason & escort. The Dragoon helmet is identical to that worn by the Cuiraissiers with the minor difference of no plume socket (marmouset) to the top of the crest. The skull , peak & neckguard are made from cast sheet steel which form a lobster tail to the rear with Medusas head to the front of the crest & thirteen palmettes seperated by water lillies. All of the fittings & the badge are of brass this including the chin scales which are adjusted by use of a partially concealed strap inner buckle system. The plume socket is set into the side of the helmet & retains its original often missing red plume which would not have been worn in the field. The front plate has a grenade set into two laurel branches this integrating with the bottom edge of the crest as the top grenade flame reaches upwards. To the crest is mounted black horsehair with a pleat which allowed it to be tied up so it did not flutter in the face of the cavalryman. There is a maker mark to the rear of the helmet for the firm \'SHF\' a well known maker of these helmets . Interior of the helmet has survived in very good order with the undersides of each peak lined in card . The sheepskin liner tongues are all good with no damage to holes. A fabulous helmet which would take pride of place in any WW1 headgear collection.
French M1872/1874 Dragoon Helmet With Rare Pale Blue Issue Field Cover A magnificent French Dragoon helmet of the M1872/1874 pattern with its rare field cover in blue for other ranks . These were in wear early 1915 by the troops of the French Dragoons who were in that early period engaged in reconnaissance , guarding the flanks & covering the infantry as well as liaison & escort. The Dragoon helmet is identical to that worn by the Cuiraissiers with the minor difference of no plume socket (marmouset) to the top of the crest. The skull , peak & neckguard are made from cast sheet steel which from a lobster tail to the rear with Medusas head to the front of the crest & thirteen palmettes seperated by water lillies. All of the fittings & the badge are of brass this including the chin scales which are adjusted by use of a partially concealed strap inner buckle system. The plume socket is set into the side of the helmet although the plume has long gone . The front plate has a grenade set into two laurel branches this integrating with the bottom edge of the crest as the top grenade flame reaches upwards. To the crest is mounted black horsehair with a pleat which allowed it to be tied up so it did not flutter in the face of the cavalryman. Interior of the helmet has survived in very good order with the undersides of each peak lined in card . The sheepskin liner tongues are all good with no damage to holes. The blue cover fitted here is shown as it came & has clearly not been off of the helmet in many years. As of 1915 the French army ordered that helmet covers were now to be of pale blue fabric in line with the new Horizon Blue uniform however colours varied greatly from various depot & private sources . Distinguishable from its Cuirassier counterpart without the hole for the \'marmouset\' it has a tightening cord around its edges. A hole at its rear allows the crest to be pulled through. A fabulous French cavalry helmet which would take pride of place in any WW1 headgear collection.
German First Aid Kit & Contents Verbandkasten) Green painted wood & metal construction First Aid Box with the German lettering of ' Verbandkasten ' on the lid & the serial number of the box. These kits were carried on vehicles & various transports to carry medical supplies such as bandages, tourniquets etc & were filled according to the requirement of the medical personnel using them. This box has inside various German medical items including several 1942 dated field dressings, several large paper wrapped bandages, 2 x 1942 dated powders in their boxes (Chloraminpuder) , Foot Cream, Vaseline in its porcelain container, salt tablets, sugar lumps, footpowder, antiseptic cream & various other pills & solutions used by medical personnel. Nice full medical kit probably from a field dressing station.
German M36 Panzer Gefreiter Service Tunic Sound example of the M36 tunic with dark green collar having rose pink piped collar litzen & Gefreiter rank to left arm. Tunic is of typical good quality early wool construction with five button front & bevo national emblem machine stitched to right breast. Early bevo collar litzen is machine stitched on a black backing & has the early central green stripe flanked by two rose pink bolts for Panzer troops. They appear to be originally sewn to the tunic with no trace of any other stitching tracks to the collar underside. Markings to interior of jacket are in the usual dice stamp form with the maker name of 'G.ASSMAN Halle' & the depot stamp 'ML39' denoting the date 1939. Size of tunic is relatively broad in the shoulders although this tunic has evidently been worn by a small statured Panzer soldier or youth due it having been considerably shortened by a tailor of the period. Gefreiter chevron to left arm & single award loops to left breast pocket. Shoulder straps are non period & are included for visual effect only. Overall a good clean example of the Panzer piped service tunic.
German MP34 Sub Machine Gun & Accessories Classic sub machine gun of the early Third Reich period being the MP34 as used by German Army, Police & other ancillary units throughout WW2. These early weapons were extremely well made with all parts being of an unusually high standard having provision for a side mounted bayonet & a unique stripper clip device built into the magazine port for ease of recharging empty magazines whilst still in place. The Overall condition of the wood & metalwork is excellent with all matching numbers & profuse waffenampt markings. This example is an old specification deactivation & as such cocks & dryfires. Comes with three spare waffenampt stamped magazines in their brown leather ammunition pouch , bayonet with scabbard & sling, all in excellent condition. ***Supplied with Home office issued certificate of deactivation***
German Soldier Document grouping Documents relating to a Gefreiter ( Corporal) Jacob Gerhard GROITZSCH wounded twice in February 1943 in Russia & subsequently ending his military service in hospital until returning to the Russian Occupied Zone of Germany in 1945. Group includes a good portrait size photograph of the soldier in M36 Service Tunic & M34 Cap obviously being an early shot before he was wounded. Also is a handwritten sheet ( probably for his Soldbuch) listing his injuries & dates & showing them as received in action & stamped from his unit Infantry Regiment 514 , a paper document issued as an Ausweis in half Russian & half German & dated 17th September 1945. This was issued when the soldier was back in the Occupied Russian Zone of Germany to act as his pass & to be produced on demand. Also is another pass or ' Passierschein' in Russian & German also for getting about in the Russian Zone & valid from the 25th October till the 31st December 1945. It is more than likely the man was fighting as a Panzergrenadier due to his number '479 217/ Panzer' being typed after his name on the Ausweis.
German WW1 Prussian Pickelhaube , Time Capsule Untouched ! An interesting example of a Prussian WW1 pickelhaube which comes completely as found uncleaned & with years of accumulated storage dust & age contributing to the charactor of the helmet. This helmet is a good example of those that can be encountered from 1915 onwards with a mix of brass & grey painted steel fittings used by manufacturers to meet demand as WW1 raged on . The Prussian helmet plate to front is firmly affixed to the helmet having not been off since it was taken from the battlefield. Chinstrap is a very rare original example with brass eyes & buckles & in very good undamaged condition. The soldiers name is handwritten in pencil to underside of the rear peak . A circular manufacturers ink stamp can be seen to crown of shell. Untouched & just as found.
Honorary Rank British Military Hat From Althorp House , Home Of Lady Diana An interesting cap that was , by repute, part of a large number of items sold via auction some years ago from the estate of Althorp House in Northamptonshire. Althorp House was the family seat of the Spencer family . It was , of course, the home of Lady Diana Spencer , later Princess of Wales for a part of her life. This hat was included in an auction lot of other items & mentioned in the catalogue. Believed to have belonged to Lady Dianas' great grandfather it was part of a uniform that represented an honorary military rank held by him . A hat of immense high quality with bullion rank to brim there is a 'CATERS' tailor name of 66A St.James St, London. Of note is the gold blocked A cypher on the interior lining . Outer body is in very good condition with a couple of minor moth tracks & some moth nips to the doeskin headband.
M35 Single Decal Army Helmet Early Model 1935 helmet with leather liner , aluminium band & early brass liner rivets. This is an example of one of the earliest runs with the brass rivets & aluminium band which were found to be too weak for service use & often broke. The band on this helmet has snapped at the stress points on the sides then been field repaired which is a common feature of early M35 helmets. A small portion of the band is missing where it has snapped & dropped out. Outside of helmet is in classic factory painted apple green which has then been overpainted to comply with the 1940 order to roughen the surface finish. Army decal is mostly remaining & has been painted around when the second coat of dark green paint has been applied. National shield has originally been painted around but then removed to comply with regulations . Small traces are still visible. Good honest helmet that has seen much service use.
M38 Gas Mask & Canister, Complete. Super example of standard WW2 German Gas Mask & Canister with all its original straps complete. Gas Mask has the green rubber style facepiece ( Size 3) dated 1941. Snout of the mask is maker coded 'gbv' & also dated 1941. There are the numbers '466' handpainted onto the snout by the soldier & all its straps are complete. Filter is of the FE41 type & is dated '43'. Factory olive green painted canister is maker coded 'eph' & dated 1943 & has two spare gas mask lense packets still contained within its lense compartment which also has a paper label bearing the soldiers rank & name of a 'Gren.Pasch Michael' ( Rank of Grenadier). Inside & at the bottom of the tin are its issue cleaning cloth & retainer which holds it in place. Both the long & short straps are present & are original German WW2 issue & not post war Bundeswehr replacements as is commonly found. This is an excellent untouched & complete example of the standard Wehrmacht Gas Mask & Canister as used by the Army, Luftwaffe, Kriegsmarine & Waffen SS combat formations in WW2. Overall excellent original condition.
M40 German Helmet , (British Soldier Souvenir) Original M40 German Helmet acquired recently from the family of a WW2 British soldier who brought it back as a souvenir. Helmet is interesting as it has had two decals painted over its original paint to copy the early double decal style. Its not clear when this was done but was more than likely put on to enhance its appearance at some point after the war. Helmet is a steel banded classic reissue with its original rough coat of dark green paint over its factory finish & original leather liner which has never been out. Leather is still in good supple condition with some stitching having come away at the rear seam. Unable to see the inside stampings due to its wartime repaint but size appears to be a 64 as it fits an average mannequin head with no problems. There are a few chips & dings to the outer shell paint & the chinstrap is long gone but this is nevertheless a good example of a classic souvenir pickup.
May 1945 General Dempsey Thankyou Communication To Members Of 83 Group RAF A May 1945 dated thankyou communication from Lt.General Dempsey thanking members of 83 Group RAF for their support under his command. Black composite framed under what appears to be perspex. No. 83 (Composite) Group was formed on 1 April 1943 within the Second Tactical Air Force. By the eve of the D-Day landings, 83 Group had grown to a strength of 29 fighter, ground-attack and reconnaissance squadrons and four artillery observation squadrons, grouped into ten wings. At the time of Operation Market Garden it consisted of the RCAF's 39 Reconnaissance Wing, 121, 122, 123 and 143 Wings flying Hawker Typhoon fighter-bombers, 125 Wing with Supermarine Spitfire fighters, and the RCAF 126 and 127 Wings also flying Spitfires. No 401 (Ram) Squadron with Spitfires was one of its squadrons from 1943. The Group HQ was at RAF Eindhoven from 1 October 1944 to 10 April 1945. It was absorbed into No. 84 Group RAF on 21 April 1946.
Named Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Marine Infantry Helmet With Camouflage \'ARA\' Cover A battlefield recovered Argentinian Marine infantry helmet with camouflage cover & original rubber band. This iconic helmet has the Marine cover with \'ARA\' contract label still attached. The \'ARA\' initials denote \'Armada de la Republica Argentina\' or \'Argentinian Navy\' . Lifting of the rubber band displays the discolouration to the fabric caused by continual wear & weathering. The helmet shell is an ex American M1 helmet , old stocks of these purchased from the USA & Argentinian produced helmet shells were both used by Argentinian forces in the Falklands. The handpainted marking in white paint \'Cdo\' is visible to interior crown. The Argentinian reworked liner is well worn with rust to the internal washers as is the case with most genuine Falklands campaign used helmets. Lifting the internal webbing yoke a handwritten name & what appears to be a date can be seen . I am unsure of the spelling of the name so have included a clear picture which may assist in identifying the correct name of the wearer. A very interesting battlefield worn Argentinian combat helmet.
Named Falklands War 1982 Argentinian Marine Infantry Helmet With Camouflage \'ARA\' Cover A battlefield recovered Argentinian Marine infantry helmet with camouflage cover & original rubber band. This iconic helmet has the Marine cover with 'ARA' contract label still attached. The 'ARA' initials denote 'Armada de la Republica Argentina' or 'Argentinian Navy' . Lifting of the rubber band displays the discolouration to the fabric caused by continual wear & weathering. The helmet shell is an ex American M1 helmet , old stocks of these purchased from the USA & Argentinian produced helmet shells were both used by Argentinian forces in the Falklands. The handpainted marking in white paint 'Cdo' is visible to interior crown. The Argentinian reworked liner is well worn with rust to the internal washers as is the case with most genuine Falklands campaign used helmets. Lifting the internal webbing yoke a handwritten name & number can be seen . This has been edited for the photograph but may be discerned by the new owner upon receipt. A very interesting battlefield worn Argentinian combat helmet.
Named Falklands War 1982 Netted Argentinian Army Helmet With Goggles Argentinian combat helmet with standard issue rubber banded net & rough green textured finish to shell exterior. A pair of goggles are fitted to the net. This configuration of helmet camouflage is very typical of the standard army conscript soldier ... the helmet shell is a typical Argentinian refurbished US M1 with a mix of typically rusted fittings to the chinstrap system. Liner is a typical depot refurbishment with shoddily replaced liner rivets & head strap system. There is alot of soldier applied scratching to the outside of the liner , A small part of what I can read is ' Ramires Domingo' & ' Guadia 13/3/77' . The number '45' is written to the crown. Lifting the web yoke of the liner system the name of what appears to be 'Aichino' can be seen. A photograph of this can be seen in the images. Coming completely as found , this item comes from a long established Falklands War collection we have recently acquired . Many of the items were sourced in the 1980s from servicemen who had returned home with them .
Normandy Found British Netted Camouflage \'Tommy\' Helmet If you are looking for a true timecapsule piece from the 1944 Normandy campaign this multi netted 'bocage' camouflage British soldiers helmet may be the one off piece for your D-Day collection. Originally coming from a house in the Operation Bluecoat area some years ago this netted helmet displays all of the attributes & unmistakeable original age that one would want to see in an ' as found ' piece such as this. When one carefully examines the netting on the helmet it becomes apparent that the soldier has , ingeniously , used four tightly tied nets to cover it with all having sunk down upon each other to form what must have been a very effective camouflage in the thick bocage of the Normandy hedgerows. One can see the tightening strings passing under the various nets in different areas with the totally undisturbed screw nut visible at the top of the helmet. The original khaki factory paint of the helmet can be seen in places with most paint removed from the rim where the net has continuously rubbed around it during heavy use. Interior displays an undisturbed rexene liner with the date '1941' just visible on one chinstrap lug. Markings on the liner cradle are obscured through the buildup of age so I have made no attempt to clean this or any other part of the helmet . A fabulous piece of history which saw action in the hedgerow hell of Normandy.
Original WW1 28/3/18 Dated British Handwritten Letter By Major General Guy Bainbridge & WW1 25th Division In France & Flanders History Book A rare & unique handwritten letter dated 23rd March 1918 written by Major general Sir Guy Bainbridge who commanded the 25th Division during WW1. There is also a divisional history of them in France & Flanders compiled not long after the First world war. Within the neatly written three page letter Bainbridge acknowledges the Division recording his appreciation of their work during the 21st to 28th March when they were in the area of the 1918 German Spring offensive. He writes : \' For the first time in history of the Division the Engineers & Pioneers had to be sent forward to act as Infantry & they did the work admirably , not only carrying out passive defence but counter attacking in a most dashing & determined manner \'. He goes on to praise all of the individual support units such as RAMC & ASC & also \' The new Machine Gun Battalion split up all over the Corps front proved itself to be quite up to the Red Horse Shoe ( Divisional Insignia ) . Fascinating item of WW1 history endorsed by a high ranking British Commanding officer.
Painting of Japanese Lunghwa Allied Internee Camp in Shanghai. This appears to be a copy of an original picture, now held in archive in the Imperial War Museum, painted by a former internee of Lunghwa Camp in Shanghai which was a camp run by the occupying Japanese forces for allied internees. The front of the picture is titled Lunghwa Camp 1943-1945 & the back has handwritten information made by the artist & former prisoner Irene (Duguid) Kilpatrick. This is an old copy of the picture she made which was presented to her whilst her original was donated to the museum & kept in archive. Lunghwa Camp was opened by the Japanese in Feb 1943 & closed in Sept 1945 holding 1700 occupants in its duration. An interesting & historic picture from the possession of a former internee of the infamous Japanese Camp Lunghwa.
Personalised WW2 RAF Irvine Flying Jacket 1941 A quite stunning Irvine Flying Jacket with personalised motif painted to upper left breast & label intact bearing sizes & 1941 date. The Irvine flying jacket is an iconic piece of RAF flying kit with dated & personalised examples becoming very hard to find now. This particular piece bears its original factory sewn clothing label with nomenclature , sizes & clear date of 1941. The initials \' S.T.M.\' have been written across it by the original owner however these do not seem to match the motif painted onto the breast . Its half waist belt remains totally intact with both sleeve & front zips all \'DOT\' marked & in fully working order. Quite remarkably there are no rips or tears anywhere on the jacket with it still being incredibly supple upon handling. The thick pile fleece is complete & undamaged. Overall a superb RAF piece from the early part of WW2 !
Postwar British MKII Paratrooper Helmet A good untouched British MKII paratrooper helmet with all of its original green factory paint, webbing straps & chin cup. Upon inspection of the liner screws to the exterior of the shell it becomes immediately apparent that they are totally unmolested & match completely the colour & wear on the rest of the helmet. This is an attribute not often encountered on many that are now offered . The exterior paint finish displays an attractive patina of service wear with some very roughly & randomly applied splotches of a now subdued dull tan camouflage colour visible in places. Interior of the helmet is all present & correct with the often missing dome crash pad intact. The leather is very supple with no damage & the chamois lining is still present to the underside of the chin cup. The maker mark , size & date 'CCL 7 1/2 1956 ' are impressed into the sweatband. Identical to a wartime dated MK2 paratrooper helmet , & referred to today as the MkIII by collectors , this excellent example of the 'Helmet Steel, Airborne Troops ' would be perfect for mannequin display & considerably more affordable.
Pre EU/UK Deactivation - WW2 German MG42 Machine Gun With Anti Aircraft Sight & 1944 Dated Wooden Butt For non EU Sales only - For sale to customers outside the European Union. If you are looking for that fantastic one off MG42 to compliment your collection then this one may be for you ! Deactivated WW2 German 7.92mm MG42 machine gun with anti aircraft sight & rarely encountered three letter maker code , waffenamt markings & 1944 date stamped into the wooden butt. Butt marking appears to be 'hvq 1944 WAa434' . This example also has the reddish brown bakelite grips & maker code as well as markings to left side of 'MG42 dfb' for the maker ' Gustloff-Werke Waffenwerk Suhl ' . This three letter code is seen on various parts of the weapon along with eagle & swastika waffenamt markings. Coming with its desirable rear anti aircraft sight .Overall condition is excellent. For non EU sales only however can be re-deactivated to the current EU specification. Please email before purchase. ***Sorry cannot ship Scotland or Ireland***
Prewar Photo Album of German Battleship Deutschland Funeral & Spanish War, Chinese War Etc An interesting photograph album containing a mix of photographs from immediate prewar campaigns & actions having been period compiled by a British soldier from captured photographs taken from prisoners. The soldier has indexed the pages contained within on the front inside cover starting with views of Gibralter & Spain then moving into shots of a funeral from the German battleship Deutschland. History tells us that the Deutschland was attacked by Soviet bombers in 1937 which fits in well with the prewar period & the shots of Kriegsmarine personnel & swastika flag draped coffins. One photograph also appears to be of Adolf Hitler although from a distance present at the military funeral service. The album then goes on into photographs of HMS Hunter & the Chinese War before more photographs of the Spanish War follow. Many shots of different personnel are present & also some showing corpses & an apparent execution both spanning the Chinese & Spanish war section. The origins of this album & its owner are not known.
Princess Mary Christmas Gift Tin 1914 & Christmas Card Nice example of the famous 1914 Christmas Gift Tin presented as a gift from Princess Mary to the troops in the first year of the Great War. As supply demands were very high for these tins their distribution to the troops ( & also war widows) took some time & as the war dragged on unexpectedly the quality of the tins declined with plating being used for the exterior finish. This example is of early production in good brass with some weight to it & with the decoration detail still being very clear. Also with the tin is a Christmas card bearing good wishes for the New Year from Princess Mary bearing her monogram on the front of it & the date 1915. Outer part of the card is split in two but inside pages bearing the message are intact. Very nice WW1 piece of history & hard to find still with the card.
Provenanced WW2 Squadron Leaders MkII Helmet 1940 An early WW2 British MkII helmet that has the initials of 'WJH' to front & name 'Henney' known to have been from an RAF Squadron leader named William James Henney who is known to have been a Chief Ground Instructor at the Operational Training Unit , Greenwood , Nova Scotia. This base was a training unit for the RAF from 1942 until 1944 when the Royal Canadian Air Force took over. Helmet is a very nice example of an early issue 1940 MkII with rough khaki textured outer paint applied over its first smooth factory paint. Marked with the initials & date 'JSS 1940' for the firm Joseph Sankey it has liner cradle with 'VERO' maker & 1941 date. The name 'Henney' has been scratched into the underside of the shell also. A helmet that has hardly been worn it comes with a brief paper synopsis gained from preliminary research by the previous owner.
Published WW1 German M16 Camouflage Helmet With Unique Swirl Effect A three tone M17 camouflage helmet that has had black swirls worked into each segment to enhance the effectiveness of the scheme. This actual helmet can be seen on Page 158 of the superb reference book \'Stahlschutzhelme\' by , in short, esteemed collector & author Oliver Lock . In the classic colours of tan ochre , red brown & forest green small swirls have been applied to some of the segments creating a somewhat artistic & unique addition to a helmet that could otherwise be described as conforming to the 1918 directive of standardisation. Interior has the later three stitch lined leather band denoting its manufacture by way of lamination process involving thinner leather sections which were not as robust as the earlier thicker versions. Marked to underside of rim with manufacturer & size \'BF62\'.
Published WW1 German M17 Camouflage Helmet A superb M17 camouflage helmet which is pictured on pages 144 & 145 of the superb reference book \'Stahlschutzhelme\' by Oliver Lock. Souvenired by an American soldier in WW1 this three tone segmented camouflage helmet is typical of those ( As stated by author Oliver Lock ) adhering to the 7th July 1918 directive. Interestingly there is an American soldier written capture inscription to the underside of the rear neck reading \'Corbic , France Nov. 1918\' . The camouflage has been artistically applied in sections with black dividing lined running around each & extending around the bottom rim of the helmet. As Oliver Lock states in his book regarding this helmet the somewhat bleached out & deeply patinated camouflage give us an idea of how matt its finish has remained without having been exposed to postwar collector oiling or waxing. Interior liner band is of the metal 1917 pattern with leather cushion holders & all three cushions . The front pad has been very skilfully collector repaired which as improved it vastly from its loose state.
Published WW2 British Police Inspectors Helmet 1939 A totally untouched rare wartime Police Inspectors helmet which can be seen on page 151 of the superb Adrian Blake reference book \' Helmets of the Home Front\'. A blue MkII helmet overpainted in white with one rank pip surmounting what appears to be a decal type transfer \' POLICE\' it would appear this style originated in the London area. With heavy service wear throughout there are chips & scuffs to the exterior with an uncleaned & cobwebbed interior that looks like it was in a shed for a long time ! Remains of the blue paint can be seen to rim underside with 1938 dated chinstrap lugs & 1938 date to rim ( See images ) . Liner cradle can be faintly seen to bear the maker name & date of \'JCS&W Ltd 1939\' ( Compton & Webb). Web chinstrap is intact with the initials \'NW\' . Rare helmet & one that has seen much war service by a Police Inspector .
RAF 1925/37 Pattern Pistol Order Webbing Set Matching set of RAF webbing that is as it was worn during WW2 & in original condition with all of its original components. Set comprises the scarce 1925 pattern pistol ammunition pouch ( wider than the '37 patt & dated 1939 ) 1925 pattern pistol holster dated 1939 & 1937 pattern belt dated 1941. The RAF used much 1925 pattern equipment upon the outbreak of WW2 this being gradually replaced by the 1937 pattern from 1941 onwards. AM stamp with crown is visible on the belt & holster with 'MECo' manufacturer stamp also present. Pistol ammunition pouch is clearly stamped 'MECo 1939'. This set was evidently worn together for a very long time as it is washed out but matching with only very minor traces of blue/grey blanco on some small obscured areas. 1925 pattern RAF webbing is very hard to find now this set having recently surfaced from the effects of a former WW2 RAF pilot.
RAF B Type Flying Helmet 1939 Type 'B' Flying Helmet ( Designation 22C/65 ) standard flying helmet of RAF aircrew personnel between 1936 & 1941. In dark brown leather the helmet is lined in chamois & has a layer of cotton padding between the leather shell & chamois lining. Helmet has a leather chinstrap fitted with a friction buckle & also a similar leather strap & buckle arrangement at the back where there is an opening that has apparently been stitched shut. The Air Ministry designation of 'AM 22C/65' is clearly visible impressed into the leather on the right side & the manufacturer label intact on the inside is still present. This shows the maker as being 'Wareings of Northampton LTD No3 size 7 1/8 - 7 3/8. There is also the clear date 1939. Helmet has had its earcups removed & has certainly seen much use. Would certainly benefit from a good clean. Nice RAF item.
RAOC Captains Service Dress Jacket, Trousers & Sam Browne Set. Nice clean example of the WW2 British officers service dress jacket & trousers belonging to a member of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. Jacket is the pre 1942 pattern with box pleated breast pockets, buttoned bottom pockets & built on cuffs in khaki drab material. Also RAOC buttons throughout with correct officers RAOC badges to lapel. Three pips to each shoulder strap indicate rank of Captain with interesting medal ribbons mounted above left pocket. They show that this officer was a North Africa veteran having been awarded the 1939-45 Star, Africa Star & Italy Star & also has the distinction of having been mentioned in despatches represented by the oakleaf sewn next to his ribbons. Interestingly, the uniform was made by a tailor in Egypt , as the label testifies, tying in nicely with his medal entitlement. Comes complete with his Sam browne belt & shoulder strap. Overall in excellent condition with two very small moth nips to the rear shoulder blade area. Leather of Sam Browne is excellent with no dryness & retaining its suppleness.
Rare Belgian 1889 Model Civil Guard Bayonet With Matching Numbers Rare matching numbered Belgian Model 1889 bayonet for the \' Garde Civique \' with a longer blade than the standard issue. The \'Garde Civique\' was a Belgian paramilitary militia which existed between 1830 & 1920. They were very much a \'Gendarmerie\' police type unit responsible for maintaining social order within Belgium. Upon mobilisation on 4th August 1914 following the German invasion the German authorities regarded them as irregular troops & threatened to execute captured \'Garde\' members. These threats were taken seriously by King Albert 1 who ordered its dissolution on 13th October 1914. In good condition it has matching number \' T782\' to scabbard frog & bayonet hilt . *** Prood of age over 18 will be required ***
Rare Early WW1 French Infantry Officers \' Horizon Blue\' Kepi 1914/15 A rare early WW1 officers private purchase kepi of the semi Foulard style & in blue grey wool. Extremely difficult to find today these early blue examples were seen in the field by 1915 with the Hungarian knot & double rank braiding ( Lieutenant ) being a carryover from the pre WW1 period. Rank insignia & unit numbering on kepis were forbidden towards the end of 1914 however many examples were produced commercially which simply ignored this regulation. This Kepis early war manufacture is denoted by the ' Demi Foulard' style which was a popular style from 1884 onwards. Chinstrap is of matching blue cloth with both chinstrap buttons in gilt & having the flaming grenade of the infantry. When one carefully pulls back the chinstrap to reveal the unweathered cloth its light blue colour is quite striking. Interior has a high quality blue satin lining with tailor label for 'Beviere' of ' 11 Rue Nationale , Tours' . Having survived in quite excellent condition it has only two or three very small moth nips that are only noticeable upon close inspection. A rare piece of early WW1 French headdress & one of the first to be produced.
Rare Falklands War Argentinian Helmet From 7th Inf. Regiment Who Fought At Mount Longdon & Wireless Ridge An iconic & now very rare Falklands war Argentinian army helmet from Regiment Infantry 7 who fought at Mount Longdon & Wireless Ridge. This helmet was brought back from the Islands as a souvenir after the campaign. Typical of many seen in period photographs being worn by the Argentinian conscripts with winter parka hoods as camouflage covers the exterior has extensive weathering , grime & wear to its outside typically indicative of those Argentinian combat helmets that were actually worn in the Falklands campaign. The thick black rubber band has always been in place on the helmet & shows an unweathered freshness of colour to the unexposed areas underneath it. On examination of the covers underside within the helmet the black ink marking 'RI7' can be clearly seen which I believe is a regiment stamp. Helmet shell is an American made example , surplus stocks of US M1 shells were used, as well as their own in roughly equal quantities by their forces. Helmet liner shows typical Argentinian features to the liner with ad hoc rivet placement. The soldiers name has been handwritten onto the leather headband with the conscript intake number 'S/C 68' still being legible, The name is very hard to read however maybe decipherable upon closer inspection. A textbook one look Argentinian camouflage helmet that has come straight from the battlefield brought back by a British soldier who served there. This helmet comes from a recently rediscovered private collection I have just purchased of Argentinian items that were gathered from Falklands veterans in the 1980s' & 1990s'.
Rare Transitional M18 Kriegsmarine Double Decal Helmet With Kriegsmarine Marked Chinstrap It is well recorded that Kriegsmarine double decal helmets are very hard to find with only approximately 1/10 of German helmets produced being for the German Navy. With the speed in which the Kriegsmarine were able to procure the M35 helmet this left only a very limited number of transitional double decal KM helmets remaining in service. This time capsule of a piece is an M18 model with M31 liner system installed . It has been roughly brush painted then decals applied to both sides of the exterior. The national colours are still very intact with the distinctive gold/yellow decal of the Kriegsmarine remaining in superb condition. Close examination of the aluminium buckled chinstrap finds the rare Marine marking to its underside. Very faint maker markings can be seen to its pointed end although now not discernible. Age wear & natural oxidisation to the chinstrap studs confirm that it has been undisturbed for many years , coming still on the helmet when recently found. Liner band is of the earliest production being 1931 dated with split pins of the early 1930s period used before the M31 split pin became available. Liner is ink size stamped to one finger tip. A rare piece completely as found & never having been in collector hands before.
Rare WW1 British .303 Cartridge Bandoleer 1914 Dated The only 1914 dated WW1 British cartridge bandoleer I have ever had in my possession many of these did not survive WW1 & are consequently nearly impossible to find today. Very simply constructed of tan canvas there are five buttoned compartments both for holding two 5 round chargers of .303 ammunition, 50 rounds in total . Marked & dated 'ME Co Ltd 11.14.' for the firm Mills Equipment in November 1914 there is a filling marking in red ink dated May 1915 to show that this bandoleer contained 50 rounds of MkVII .303 Ball ammunition in chargers ( Shown in symbol form of the base of a .303 ammunition charger of the early pattern ) . Original black japanned buttons to pockets. These were often issued full before an attack thus surviving examples are very rare.
Rare WW1 British 1914 Pattern Bayonet Frog & Helve Carrier A rare 1914 pattern leather equipment entrenching tool helve carrier coming complete with its correct \'14 pattern frog as would have been worn with the rest of the infantry equipment. All components of the 1914 pattern infantry equipment are very difficult to find the helve carrier probably being the most difficult with only a few ever making the collectors market. This piece is a guaranteed original example with some of its original markings still visible where stamped into the leather. Those that can be seen I have included in the images with this being a British made example having typical rivets & brass buckles used in its construction. It is in excellent supple condition & in mid to dark brown colour the shades of brown encountered differing considerably. The \'14 pattern frog is also in excellent supple condition with maker mark of \'J.TATE & SON , BOLTON \' . A very rare piece from WW1.
Rare WW1 British Anti-Gas \' Spicer\' Goggles A rare pair of the WW1 'Spicer' Anti gas goggles first issued to the British soldier in the 1915 period along with the P helmet. These were made to be worn in a tear gas attack when eye protection was required instead of the gas helmet. The goggles were named the 'Spicer' goggles after their designer in the gas warfare department. Cheap & simple to produce they were made from two layers of fairly stiff khaki cotton that were stitched together with two celluloid eyepieces sandwiched & stitched between. To the reverse is a soft flannelette & also long tapes to facilitate tying to the head . On the front of the goggles are written the soldiers details in hand these appearing to be ' BARNES No. 41037' & 'RGA' for the Royal Garrison Artillery. As with all items of WW1 anti gas equipment these are very rare & would be nearly impossible to find again.
Rare WW1 British Army Regimentally Marked Cold Weather Fur Waistcoat A rare regimentally marked WW1 British soldiers fur waistcoat as worn by the BEF early on in WW1. A very similar example can be seen in the archives of the Imperial War Museum this being a recognised pattern & certainly one of a variety of different examples that were utilised at that time. This piece has a large WW1 ink stamp of \' 7 MR 13 \'to its interior in the style typical of those WW1 regimental marks sometimes found. This would most logically signify either the 7th Battalion Middlesex or Manchester regiment. There is a name to the reverse of \' R.LEES \' which may well lend itself to research. These sleeveless jerkins were both issued & locally made & were widely used during the early war winters of 1914 & 1915 before the introduction of the well known blanket lined leather jerkin. Constructed with the fleece on the inside it fastens by means of a double breasted toggle tied front. There is also a corner fastening such as seen on the \'wrapover\' RFC Maternity tunics. There are heavy leather reinforcing patches used in the construction on weaker areas such as the shoulder seam area & also as the platforms for toggle fasteners which would be prone to stress during use. A tightening system is visible to the rear again using the crude toggle tie fasteners. Overall condition is very good with all of the string ties present & toggles undamaged . Just one stress tear to front corner edge of the skin for which I can make no apologies ! A rare item & a recorded pattern .. not many survive today.
Rare WW1 British Army Regimentally Marked Cold Weather Fur Waistcoat A rare regimentally marked WW1 British soldiers fur waistcoat as worn by the BEF early on in WW1. A very similar example can be seen in the archives of the Imperial War Museum this being a recognised pattern & certainly one of a variety of different examples that were utilised at that time. This piece has a large WW1 ink stamp of \' 7 MR 13 \'to its interior in the style typical of those WW1 regimental marks sometimes found. This would most logically signify either the 7th Battalion Middlesex or Manchester regiment. There is a name to the reverse of \' R.LEES \' which may well lend itself to research. These sleeveless jerkins were both issued & locally made & were widely used during the early war winters of 1914 & 1915 before the introduction of the well known blanket lined leather jerkin. Constructed with the fleece on the inside it fastens by means of a double breasted toggle tied front. There is also a corner fastening such as seen on the \'wrapover\' RFC Maternity tunics. There are heavy leather reinforcing patches used in the construction on weaker areas such as the shoulder seam area & also as the platforms for toggle fasteners which would be prone to stress during use. A tightening system is visible to the rear again using the crude toggle tie fasteners. Overall condition is very good with all of the string ties present & toggles undamaged . Just one stress tear to front corner edge of the skin for which I can make no apologies ! A rare item & a recorded pattern .. not many survive today.
Rare WW1 French 1884 Pattern 10th Infantry Regiment Other Ranks Kepi As Worn August 1914 An exceptionally rare French infantry other ranks 1884 model kepi as was still being worn by French infantry soldiers in the very early stages of WW1 . This Kepi belonged to a soldier of the 10th Infantry regiment as is denoted by the number of the regiment on a patch sewn to its front. This regiment were involved in the earliest campaigns of 1914 a short list of which I have written below. With soft black peak & black leather double slider chinstrap the body of the cap is in the garish madder red wool with dark blue cord piping & cap band. The side ventilation grommets are of red painted brass with two small tombac chinstrap buttons decorated with the grenade for infantry to each side. The heavily worn interior has black leather sweatband with a leather covered padded crown that incorporates a lift up patch for the soldiers name to be written if desired. A full lining is sewn to the whole interior for insulation. I believe the 10th infantry patch to front to be originally sewn to the kepi it is roughly hand stitched around in khaki thread very typically of the period.An example of this can be seen in the Winter & Aiolfi book ' Exotisch French Kepis of the Twentieth Century ' on page 115 . A heavily used kepi there are some moth nips & tracks to the fine wool although not detracting in any way at all from this rare other ranks French infantry item of headdress. The 10th Infantry Regiment were part of the 15th Division as of August 1914 & were involved in many of the early battles such as Battle of the Frontiers in August 1914 & the Battle of Sarrebourg to name only two.
Rare WW1 French 66th Infantry Regiment M1897 Other Ranks Tunic As Worn August 1914 A very rare example of the M1897 tunic with original collar tabs of the 66th Infantry Regiment . These prewar tunics were originally intended for walking out dress however were worn in the field by NCOs ( Here a sergeant ) & were also issued to reserve regiments who had not been issued with jackets due to limited supply upon the advent of war. There is a bayonet frog loop on the left side with false pockets & scalloped flaps to rear decorated with six uniform buttons. Gold chevron denotes rank of sergeant & marksman to left sleeve. The 66th Infantry regiment were garrisoned in Tours in 1914 & formed the 35th Infantry Brigade with the 32nd Infantry Regiment . They saw much combat during WW1 including Ypres - Artois 1914/15 , Verdun-L\'Aisne 1916/17 , Metz 1918 & The Marne 1918. The regiment suffered its first gas attack at the second Battle of Ypres .
Rare WW1 French Adrian\' Armoured\' Epaulette Shoulder Pads - Sous-Intendant Adrian, who wanted to design and mass produce simple and effective forms of protection, designed shoulder pads in December 1915 at the same time as the helmet that bore his name. They were intended to protect the soldiers\' shoulders, the most exposed parts of the body after the head, from shrapnel exploding above the trenches. With his well-known feeling for practical and economical things, he had sheet metal for helmets made into strips. They were sewn into two thicknesses of cloth recovered from modified items, horizon-blue on top, the other colours below, here madder-red and bluish iron-grey. The rollers had the same purpose as the pre-war ones, to prevent the kit straps from slipping off. More than two million of the shoulder pads were produced and issued after January 1916. Many photographs show they were used on a large scale at the front lines. They were not effective and were used until stocks were exhausted.
Rare WW1 French Foreign Legion M15 Adrian Helmet With Souvenir Plaque An excellent M15 Adrian helmet in the khaki of the Foreign Legion with \' Soldat De La Grande Guerre \' Souvenir plaque to front brim. All Foreign Legion helmets were given the classic infantry helmet painted khaki after October 1915 with flaming grenade badge to front. The earlier factory blue can still be seen in places underneath the khaki . Helmets of demobilised officers & other ranks were decorated with the brass \' Soldier Of The Great War 1914-1918\' souvenir plaques as of 16th April 1919 & were issued by the state of France as a recognition of service. Some were named however many were not as is the case here. Examination of the interior confirms this as an early production Adrian with a first model one piece liner used until early 1916. The red wool backing of its headband is from offcuts of the early red issue trousers . There is a name scratched into the underside of the front brim which may be dechiperable upon closer inspection . Original chinstrap intact.
Rare WW1 French L\'Intendance\' Adrian Helmet Without doubt one of the rarest M15 Adrian helmets to be encountered this is an excellent example of those worn by troops of \'L\'Intendance\' ( Quartermaster/Supply Corps). The badge was introduced in March 1916 & consists of a Laurel wreath, flags and fasces for the officials of \'L\'Intendance\'. With a high proportion of its original early factory blue paint to inside & out the leather liner is of the multi construction second pattern with tightening lace to centre. Rolled newspaper can be seen pushed up behind the liner no doubt for comfort & insulation , I have made no attempt to pull this out. Finally the original chinstrap is in excellent condition with black painted iron buckle intact. There is some overall moderate wear to the helmet & evidence of prolonged storage however all leatherwork is still in good order.
Rare WW1 French M15 \' Troupes D\'Afrique \' Adrian Helmet ( Zouave & Tirailleur ) An excellent WW1 M15 French Adrian helmet for African troops ( Armee D\' Afrique ) worn with this mustard colour & crescent badge by Chausseurs d\'Afrique, the Spahis , the Zouaves & the Tirailleurs . These troops were recruited from or stationed in French North Africa from 1830 & as such were part of the French Metropolitan army many of whom were sent to fight in France at the beginning of WW1. The mustard colour of the helmets was to match the colour of their uniforms & first issues of the helmet were mustard painted over the factory blue when received . They were then mustard painted directly at the factory during manufacture & so this example is one of the very first African Army issues. A heavily worn combat helmet the original blue is visible through the chips & scuffs of the outer paint. All fititngs are still firm & intact with the early first model one piece liner & its corrugated ventilation strips still in place. With its original brown leather chinstrap there are some small dents to the exterior right side & also to the crest all testament to its active service in WW1.
Rare WW1 French M1867 Other Ranks Trousers ( With Early Button Tabs To Pockets ) A seldom encountered pair of the French M1867 red Other Ranks trousers as were being worn at the 1914 outbreak of WW1 by the French infantryman. As with most French army items in the 1914 period these were first introduced in 1867 with slight modifications in the proceeding years. This pattern are identified as the early M1867 model by the presence of buttoning closure tabs to the inside edge of each pocket. Having two straight hip pockets & an adjustable waist band to the rear they have very old wood/horn buttons to waist area for attachment of the braces & metal dished buttons to front fly. One of the waist buttons is a factory sewn ' Equipmente Militaire ' marked button with one original factory sewn button to front fly marked; ' Habillements Militaire ' . With profuse ink stamped markings to the interior waistband there is an inspection marking to reverse lining of fly although illegible. A good worn pair there is no unsightly damage just wear to the nap of the cloth & a few minor stitch repairs to areas such as the pocket edges & front fly. There are some minor grubby marks to rear of right leg. A very rare pair of early French ' Poilu' trousers from this early war period.
Rare WW1 French M1873 Artillery Blouse (50th Artillery Regiment) A wonderful M1873 Artillery Blouse for a Farrier of the 50th Field Artillery. These early issue garments were still being worn by French troops when war broke out in 1914 this piece being dated 1905. The 50th Field Artillery were garrisoned in Rennes & part of the 10th Brigade , X Corps. For all artillerymen this blouse was the main garment for all forms of dress. Of fine dark blue cloth it has buttoned shoulder straps which immediately identify this an Artillery jacket. with standup collar & red collar tabs of the 50th matching the regimentals markings stamped onto the interior lining. The front is fastened by nine tombac buttons that have the crossed cannons & bursting grenade of Artillery troops. Interior lining shows it as belonging to the 50th Artillery with a previous unit issue before this. The inspection stamp gives the date as 1905. Bullion horseshoe Farrier badge to left sleeve. In excellent condition having escaped the ravages of moth for over 100 years .
Rare WW1 French M1893 Field Pack An excellent example of the very rare French M1893 Field Pack as was worn by French infantry upon the mobilisation of French troops in 1914. The blackened impregnated cloth & wooden frame are in excellent condition with no damage & all of the packs load carrying strap tabs & loops are intact. Rear of the pack has both of its two piece shoulder straps with large brass swivel rivet in good order. Underside of the flap has double white canvas which is split in the middle for carriage of the paybook . Here are found a Paris maker stamp with date of April 1892 just slightly before the official designation that we know as the M1893 pattern . An inspection stamp is illegible although there appears to be a 1902 unit stamp . A fabulous piece in outstanding condition & a must have for your 1914 'Poilu'.
Rare WW1 French Officer M15 \'Armee D\'Afrique\' Light Infantry Battalion Adrian Helmet An interesting WW1 French officers Adrian helmet in mustard colour & with the bugle horn insignia worn by battalions of the Light Infantry of Africa. ( Bataillons d'Infanterie Légère d'Afrique ) . These battalions were French infantry & construction units serving in Northern Africa & made up of men who had prison records but military time to serve. They also consisted of men with serious disciplinary records. Many of these men saw active service with three battalions serving on the Western Front with distinction. Others were permanent units stationed in French North Africa providing garrison troops. This helmet belonged to an officer of one of these battalions & could well have served in Algeria , Tunisia, Morocco or even the Western Front . This helmet is an early production M15 example with light blue still present underneath the liner but the mustard paint extended underneath the rim . This officer has chosen to purchase a plaid leather chinstrap according to personal preference this fitted with small brass chinstrap buttons directly fitted onto each side. The bugle horn insignia to front is firm to the helmet & an early first model one piece pre 1916 black liner is present with corrugated vents on each side. There are some faint black ink stamps on the blue of the interior crown however these are under years of dirt & sweat so I am reluctant to disturb it ! A rare piece of French colonial military history .
Rare WW1 French Special Artillery Helmet A rare WW1 Adrian helmet converted for use by Special Artillery ( Armoured Vehicle ) troops . When France first started using Armoured vehicles in the latter WW1 period they acknowledged that a steel helmet would be required by the crews if engaged in combat outside the tank. A specific helmet did not actually enter service until 1919 however tank units were already making modifications to their Adrian helmets by removal of the front visor at unit workshop level. There was no standardisation of this conversion & so examples can be seen in period photographs with & without brow pads in various forms. This fabulous piece is an example of such a helmet with the Artillery branch badge to front of which the Special Artillery were a part. Interior has second pattern multi construction liner with chinstrap secured to rear neckguard. The light grey colour is recognised as used by these troops & found on some of their helmets although by no means all.
Rare WW1 German Artillery Regiment Pickelhaube With Early \'Grenadier\' Style Eagle A rare WW1 German Field Artillery Regiment pickelhaube with 'FWR' monogrammed 'Grenadier' eagle plate to front for the honoured 'Old Regiments' 1,2,3, & 6. An M1895 Model for Senior NCOs it is fitted with rounded chinstrap scales as would be found on cavalry helmets due to there use of horses. The above mentioned Artillery regiments were considered to be honoured as ' Old Regiments' & thus were permitted to wear the old style 'Grenadier' Eagle helmet plate with FWR monogram on oval shield. In quite excellent condition the brass gilt fired fittings are immaculate with metal ball of the artillery totally unscrewable. Only minor scuffs to leatherwork . Interior lining is immaculate with no damage to any of the fingers . All fititngs are firm. A rare item of Imperial German headdress .
Rare WW1 German Ersatz M.95 Tin \' Kit-Helmet\' Pickelhaube of Prussia 1915 Produced in 1915 this ersatz M.95 tin pickelhaube is an example of the type referrred to as the ' kit-helmet ' where various components were made by the manufacturer & then sent to the various army corps for assembly into complete helmets. Made by the firm ' Von der Heyden ' it is constructed from three main parts with all brass fittings & a very nice original brass buckled leather chinstrap fitted to front. Both national & Prussian cockades are original to the helmet . Interior shows only a limited amount of wear with undyed lambskin lining & its often missing thin felt crown pad still present. Rear peak bears the gold stencilled company logo of Von der Hayden in the form of ' R.v.d.h. Berlin -Sch ' with date ' 1915 ' . Size marking is painted underneath this. An excellent helmet with just a small dent to rear left side of shell.
Rare WW1 German Wurttemburg Felt Ersatz Pickelhaube Excellent rare example of a Wurttemburg infantry ersatz felt rolled edge pickelhaube with its original cockades & leather chinstrap. Issued from September 1914 through into the early quarter of 1915 these ersatz helmets were a stopgap measure to meet the shortfall in demand raised by the sudden increase in troops at the outbreak of war in 1914. Several variations of the Ersatz helmet exist this grey felt piece having the pre 1915 brass fittings & non removeable spike. The helmet plate has much of its original gilding remaining with expected wear to its high points. Both cockades are correct for the helmet with its brass buckled leather chinstrap 100% original & intact. The black leather liner is intact with a name scratched into the black underside of the spikes base plate. Overall superb untouched piece there is a very small split to the front peak with a very slight burn mark to the rear peaks underside. One can make their assumptions as to how this was obtained. Only very minimal signs of service wear to the helmets entirety .
Rare WW1 German \'Post Home\' M16 Camouflage Helmet An excellent WW1 German M16 camouflage helmet which has American post home labels affixed to its outer shell. This helmet has a now subdued green & brown camouflage scheme with black dividing lines edging each segment. A large post home label has been stuck to the top of the helmet by the soldier with handwritten address of which the place 'Mass USA' can be read ( Massuchusetts ) . A ' US POSTAGE' marked 12 Cents postage stamp has been applied to this with an overstamped oval postmark . A second label has been applied lower down with a name & partial address legible. Helmet is maker stamped 'TJ' & appears to be at least a size 66. Both of the original brass chinstrap loops remain in situ with leather M16 liner band & pins totally undisturbed. One of its partial cushion holders remains with cushion still inside it. A very nice untouched piece the Post Home examples very hard to find now.
Rare WW1 Imperial German Prussian \'Gardekorps\' Camouflage Helmet A rare WW1 camouflage helmet of Imperial Germany with black & white Hohenzollern insignia to left side of the 1st Foot Guards Regiment ( Gardekorps ). Generally speaking , German troops of WW1 did not have insignia on their helmets however photographs do exist of these troops & also those of the 1st Signals battalion wearing the Hohenzollern crest on the left side. This piece has the partial remains of this insignia with the remains of a very typically segmented ochre, green & brown camouflage scheme divided by thick black border lines. To the rear of the helmet are the remains of what appears to be the number 8 . Helmet has the maker mark & size of 'Si66' for 'Silesia' with M17 liner band totally undisturbed. Both of its original chinstrap buckles are still affixed to each lug. Still tied to each is a very old piece of string on which this helmet was hung for many years. A helmet that at one time has suffered the effects of outside storage there is rust bleed visible on the outside of the helmet penetrating its paint layers with rust to the interior which I have not disturbed. A very rare helmet which has been in the hands of European private collector for many years until now.
Rare WW2 British Home Guard Cape An extremely rare WW2 British Home Guard cape issued to the Home Guard from November 1940 until made obsolete in early 1942 as a substitute for greatcoats which were in short supply due to the massive expansion of the army. This piece is in quite superb condition with no moth or damage & retains all of its front fastening buttons. Lined in shirt material & still with its two straps to inside for securing around the shoulders . The Home Guard Cape was a replacement for the greatcoat which was in short supply in late 1940 after air raids had severely disrupted the clothing industry in the East End of London. The Home Guard needed an over-garment to cover their thin denim uniforms which were insufficient to keep the wearer warm on cold nights and it was suggested that an ‘Austrian Pattern’ cape be produced which would be simpler to manufacture than the service greatcoat. On 16th October 1940 500,000 capes were ordered, with delivery starting in November 1940. Made obsolete in November 1942 thus surviving examples are rare.
Rare WW2 British London NFS Section Leader Named Helmet ( Wimbledon ) A wonderfully untouched & researchably named NFS helmet that has two red bands for the rank of Section Leader as well as the surname ' Hodgson' with serial & section numbers to underside of rim & liner cradle. Formed in August 1941 the National Fire Service was created from the AFS & other local Fire Services that existed around the country in order to create a more co ordinated organisation of Britains firefighters during the height of the enemy bombings. Helmet markings were reappraised with the thin red band to top & thick red band to bottom identifiable as a Section Leader. Applied over the standard khaki factory paint the Area number '38' denotes Wimbledon , London. Interior has name & serial number ' Hodgson 511669 ' with section/station markings handpainted onto the underside of the rim also repeated on the liner cradle. The intact lining has early dome pad with 'JCS' maker to cradle & date which appears to be ' 1939.' Fabulous researchable piece & a rare helmet from the myriad of NFS helmet markings.
Rare WW2 British R.A.S.C Beach Group Helmet A heavily used British D-Day Beach Group helmet of the Royal Army Service Corps with the official \'Beach Group \' identification band around its circumference & the blue , yellow & white flash of the RASC to side. The Beach Group RASC had the important responsibility for the transport & distribution of supplies needed by advancing troops & supported the landing troops on Sword , Gold & Juno beaches on D-Day. This MkII helmet has clearly had a heavy service life with the rough green overpaint of 1940 thickly applied on the outer shell & then the Beach Group designation marking applied over this sometime prior to the invasion. There is heavy wear to the thick overpaint on the outside with the earlier smooth lighter khaki factory finish visible in places underneath. The liner screw is totally undisturbed & completely original to the helmet. To the helmets underside the earlier factory paint is visible with correlating wear to the paint . The liner has age crackling through years of poor storage however is not brittle & faint partial markings can just about be seen to one arm of the liner cradle. The partial date of \'193*\' can be seen however the determining digit is not discernable. Webbing chinstrap is well used with matching wear & is original to the helmet . Overall a rare piece of \'D-Day\' history unlikely to come on to the collectors market again.
RARE WW2 British ‘37 Pattern Battledress Blouse With Unlined Collar Rare unlined collar \'37 pattern battledress blouse complete with 1940 \'Q\' coded inspectors stamp. . As has been recorded the first issues of the new \'37 pattern battledress blouse came without a lined collar although this was soon modified with a lined collar to prolong its service life. Surviving examples of the unlined version are therefore very rare most not having survived very long at all. In excellent condition the clothing label to inside gives a very acceptable \'Size 11\' with maker name \' L.D.FRASER & SON , LONDON\' . There is a very pleasing crystal clear date of \'MARCH 1940\' with broad arrow to bottom of label & an ink stamped WD \'Q\' inspection code to lining for the year 1940. All of its original brass dished buttons are still present to lining & cuffs with early revolving shank vegetable ivory buttons to shoulder. Upon only very close examination can I see the odd tiny pin prick moth hole but these are in no way detracting from what is a very rare item.
Rare WW2 Canadian Normandy Unit Flashed helmet - 1st Canadian Armoured Car Regiment A 1943 dated Canadian steel helmet with rare flash for troops of the 1st Canadian Armoured Carrier Regiment . Recently surfacing in Europe & never having been in a collection before the helmet is in its original untouched khaki paint with flash in excellent order on right side. Some field wear exhibits itself to the exterior of the shell with only minor scuffing to the flash. On the underside of the shell can be seen the maker markings \'G.S.W.\' for the Canadian maker General Steel Wares with \'MK1\' & date 1941. There is dirt & cobwebs from prolonged farm storage to the inside crown which I have made no attempt to clean. The liner has some dryness with crazing , chinstrap minus. The string remains to each chinstrap lug where it was hung up in a barn for many years , again I have left this untouched. A rare helmet from an often unheard of unit which saw action right through Europe until the end of WW2. Following the successful attack on Falaise in August 1944 using tanks converted for carrying infantry troops to their objectives this regiment was formed on August 28th 1944 thereby revolutionising the then new concept of Armoured Personnel Carriers . Due to the success of the allies final victory in Europe & now being surplus to requirements they were disbanded at 2359 hours on June 20, 1945.
Rare WW2 German Luftwaffe Rubber Motorcyclists Coat 1940 A rare luftwaffe issue rubberised 3/4 length motorcyclists coat dated 1940. These luftwaffe versions were blue grey overall with a blue cloth fronted collar & blue cloth reinforcement under the armpits. Buttons are of pebbled luftwaffe blue. Unlike the army versions they had no shoulder tabs for the attachment of shoulder boards. Complete with its adjustable half belt to rear it has two deep fastening flap covered pockets to the front & one chest pocket on the right side. There is a blue grey cotton lining to the interior with buttons to top neck opening & one button remaining to left cuff. All three of its rear skirt opening \'LW\' (Luftwaffe) buttons are still present . There are three armpit vents to each side & a coat hook hanger to inside collar. Buttons are minus from both front waist pockets & there is the usual fraying to bottom hem of the coat with one small tear to front right side. Interior of coat has black inkstamped maker of \'A.Siegfried & Co , Berlin \' with \'Decemebr 1940\' date & dice stamped size markings . Recently found in Northern France this scarce coat would make a superb addition to your Luftwaffe mannequin !
Rare WW2 German Stick Grenade Rack ( Einsatz ) A rare second model rack for the retention of 15 stick grenades within their metal carrying case. This racking was seperate from the case & was lifted in & out as required. It could be carried into combat holding the grenades without the case if necessary & has a wooden swivel handle similar to that on the metal cases to facilitate this. The handle here is original to the racking. The three compartment box at top held one box of 15 Brennzunder 24 & one box of 15 Sprengkapseln Nr.8 ( Detonators & Fuses ) . Both the swivel handle & spring clips are fully functionable on this example with three of its wire clips minus to one side. A rare piece of equipment those that do surface are only ever found in ground dug or water raised condition . This piece bears remnants of the red oxide paint finish & is pitted through age. *** CARRYING CASE FOR DISPLAY ONLY BUT CAN BE PURCHASED SEPERATELY ****
Rare WW2 Kings Own Scottish Borderers , 3rd Infantry Division Battledress , Caen - June 1944 A rare Normandy campaign battledress blouse to a soldier of the Kings Own Scottish Borderers serving with the 3rd Infantry Division . The 1st Battalion KOSB were fighting with the 3rd Infantry Division in June 1944 & were heavily involved in the Battle for Caen & its surrounding areas. Battledress is of the \'40 pattern with the Leslie tartan of the KOSB to both soldiers & battle patches of the 3rd Infantry Division with brigade strips to each arm. The clothing label is still present & giving sizes & the maker as Bourne Clothing Co. Ltd . A well worn blouse there is sweat staining to the inside of the collar & the cuffs. Retaining its top button, hook & eye closure to faciliitate fastening at the neck as per regulations the soldier has also lined the inside of the lapels according to personal preference. In very good well worn condition & a rare N.W Europe British infantry unit to find.
Rare WW2 N.W Europe British Reconnaissance Corps Helmet A WW2 British MkII helmet with rare green & yellow flash of the Reconnaissance Corps . In heavy combat during the Normandy campaign these forward operating troops were in the thick of operations around Caen where this helmet was kept in private hands until sold by the family some years ago. The overall appearance of the helmet is one of a heavily worn piece with a rough light khaki finish to its exterior typical of early army helmets. The green & yellow flash to left side has correlating age & patina to that of the rest of the helmet however remains visible. Years of outside storage are evidenced by rust having formed to the dome of the outer shell , the underside of the helmet is in a darker chocolate brown factory paint finish with date 1940 to rim. Liner cradle is well worn & dirty with the date 1940 just about visible. Webbing chinstrap is hooked over the front rim , I have made no attempt to disturb it. A fabulous piece of N.W Europe history & from a very rare dfficult to find unit.
Recently Surfaced \'22 Pattern Tunic Of The Royal Horse Artillery With All original Insignia & Dogtags A fabulous 1942 dated '22 pattern Service Dress tunic which recently surfaced during the lockdown untouched from the war . Tunic is of the Royal Horse Artillery with brass RHA titles to shoulders & flaming grenade badges to collar. Brass General Service buttons all present. Rank chevrons denote Lance Corporal rank with two Good Conduct sleeve chevrons for five years . Red backed trade badge of Artificer to right arm & standard WW2 medal ribbons to left breast including that of the Territorial Medal. Underside of front fly has his army number stencilled with matching numbered dogtags found in the pocket. Clothing label is worn however the broad arrow War Department inspection stamp denotes year 1942. It is always hard to find actual untouched wartime badged SD tunics now this example remains, apart from the odd moth prick, in excellent condition.
Schiffer Book: Imperial German Field Uniforms & Equipment Vol 1 This two volume set provides the reader with an insight into the wide range of uniforms, weapons and field equipment used by the Imperial German Army during the First World War. The devastating and dramatic character of the war required many innovations in military clothing and equipment. New uniforms and adequate protection was a must and steel helmets appeared on the battlefield, replacing the outdated spiked helmets. Even medieval looking items, like steel breastplates and trench clubs, were produced, giving the soldiers a fearful appearance. The threat of poison gas caused the immediate development of gas masks. It was also the time of the tank, observation balloons, mine warfare, the Zeppelin, airplanes, flame throwers, deadly machine guns, and other war machinery that saw service, sometimes for the first time. Using over 1,000 colour and period photographs from private collections and museums, the author succeeds in showing a broad range of artifacts, together with full and to the point descriptions. This series is aimed towards the novice or advanced German World War I collector and enthusiast, military history student, modeller, researcher and re enactor. Brand new in stock.
Schiffer Book:Imperial German Field Uniforms & Equipment Vol 2 This two volume set provides the reader with an insight into the wide range of uniforms, weapons and field equipment used by the Imperial German Army during the First World War. The devastating and dramatic character of the war required many innovations in military clothing and equipment. New uniforms and adequate protection was a must, and steel helmets appeared on the battlefield, replacing the outdated spiked helmets. Even medieval-looking items, like steel breastplates and trench clubs, were produced, giving the soldiers a fearful appearance. The threat of poison gas caused the immediate development of gas masks. It was also the time of the tank, observation balloons, mine warfare, the Zeppelin, airplanes, flame throwers, deadly machine guns, and other war machinery that saw service, sometimes for the first time. Using over 1,000 color and period photographs from private collections and museums, the author succeeds in showing a broad range of artifacts, together with full and to the point descriptions. This series is aimed towards the novice or advanced German World War I collector and enthusiast, military history student, modeller, researcher and re-enactor. Brand new in stock.
Splinter Pattern Camouflage Luftwaffe Ground Forces Jacket ( Field Division Etc) Classic Luftwaffe Ground Forces Splinter Pattern camouflage Jacket originally designed for use by the Luftwaffe Field Divisions as of 1942 & seeing service in many theatres including Russia , Italy & more popularly in Normandy, France. It was also worn by other Luftwaffe Ground Forces Units including Paratroopers & Army Officer personnel on attachment. Jacket has without doubt seen much combat service evidenced by its used condition but nevertheless retains good strong colours. Jacket is in the earlier & rarer cotton pattern as HBT versions replaced these from mid war onwards.Buttons are of the correct metal dish variety & are all complete with pebbled buttons on the shoulders & cloth retaining loop for shoulder straps still in place. Inside pockets are in blue HBT & there is a wartime repair to the right bottom pocket area where splinter camouflage material has been used as a patch then overstitched several times for strength. Breast eagle removed. Good combat jacket much used in Normandy by Luftwaffe Ground Forces. Helmet & combat equipment shown for display only.
The Lee-Enfield – A Century of Lee-Metford & Lee-Enfield Rifles & Carbines The net product of more than four decades of international research and study, evolving through two prior editions and many other related titles, this record is surely the ultimate account of a century’s development and issue of the Lee-Enfield rifle. From the Remington Lee trials rifles in the mid-1880’s to the 7.62mm NATO L42A1 sniper rifle serving in modern conflicts, the Lee has proven itself as the finest battle rifle of all time. No other long-arm has served for so many years, in the theatres at home and abroad, with such a proud record of service. This work encompasses all aspects of Lee-Enfield development and production, in Britain, America, India, Australasia, South Africa and the Far East. The rifles, carbines, bayonets, component parts, tools, accessories and ammunition are arranged into specific groups and chapters. No proper reference is complete without a comprehensive index; this too has been expanded from the previous editions. With such a broad field of models and variations, a new initial chapter enables newcomers to identify items by their features and markings. There are five new chapters:. Preview, Model Identification .Lee-Enfield Hybrids .Serial Number Production ranges. Component Parts Evolution. An Ammunition Summary along with 16 pages of colour plates. The Pattern Room collection and library has been the primary source for samples and records. With more than 1,400 illustrations in a larger format, this presentation sets a new standard for collectors, students and shooters of the venerable Lee-Enfield.
Third Reich Hitler Youth Drum & Hanger Sound example of the Hitler Youth drum as used by the 'Hitler Jugend' movement of the Third Reich era. This piece has been totally restored & as such is in excellent condition & would compliment any Hitler Youth display. Drum skin is constructed of calfskin with four cat gut cords (snares) strung across the lower drum skin. The outer ring of the drum is made from thick wood with thin copper sheet covering the outer ring. Outer sides are triangularly patterned in the white & red of the Hitler Youth with a two hole plate on its upper edge for attachment of the belt hanger. Beneath this on the lower edge is a metal handle for pulling to the body when in use. Faint markings remaining on the belt hanger plate, the hanger itself has some rust to its loop rivets but is otherwise sound.
Third Reich Hitler Youth Uniform & HJ Dagger Nice representation of the standard Hitler Youth uniform as worn from approx 1935 onwards this set comprising the tunic, summer cap, scarf, leather knot, HJ belt & buckle, cross strap ( belt loops are replacements) & dagger. Summer cap is in tan cotton with the RZM marked metal diamond HJ badge affixed to its front. Tan twill tunic was authorised for wear as of August 1935 onwards & is made of heavy ribbed cotton with four pockets & a fixed collar. Swastika HJ armband present with the white on black triangular district badge sewn to the left upper arm for ' nord niedersachsen ' & on each shoulder of the tunic a shoulder strap with standard red piping & the number ' 539 '. The underside of one of the straps is complete with its RZM label intact. All buttons are present. Black HJ scarf is original & still has its RZM label denoting use by the ' HJ,DJ or BDM. Hitler Youth dagger is in excellent condition with black painted scabbard ( 96% paint intact) & brown leather belt loop & keeper having no damage. Dagger itself has brown leather buffer to top of blade under hilt & sprung HJ diamond emblem in its handle. Maker marked ' RZM M7/38' which denotes the firm Paul Seilheimer it is in overall excellent condition. Belt leather is a shortened youth version with some personalisation in the form of initials stitched into the leather. Buckle is original although with some ageing to its prongs. Complete set is offered together as one lot in overall excellent conditon.
Time Capsule WW2 British Infantry Helmet - Found Normandy If you are looking for a true timecapsule piece from the 1944 Normandy campaign this multi scrimmed \'bocage\' camouflage British soldiers helmet may be the one off piece for your D-Day collection. Originally coming from a house in the Bayeux, Normandy area some years ago this netted helmet displays all of the attributes & unmistakeable original age that one would want to see in an \' as found \' piece such as this. When one carefully examines the netting on the helmet it becomes apparent that the soldier has , ingeniously , applied a burlap type sacking to the helmet with small gauge net over this. This has formed a very effective camouflage in the thick bocage of the Normandy hedgerows as evidenced in period photographs. One can see the tightening strings passing under the net in different areas with the totally undisturbed screw nut just about visible at the top of the helmet. The original khaki factory paint of the helmet can be seen in places with most paint removed from the rim where the net has continuously rubbed around it during heavy use. Interior displays an undisturbed rexene liner with the maker marking & date to shell of \'ROCO 1939\' for the firm \'Rubery Owen\' . Markings on the liner cradle are obscured through the buildup of age so I have made no attempt to clean this or any other part of the helmet . Dirty & dusty from prolonged outbuilding storage this is undoubtedly a fabulous piece of history which saw action in the hedgerow hell of Normandy.
Tunic Of Distinguished Officer Lieutenant-General Henry Karslake Served Boer War , Western Front & British Expeditionary Force , France In June 1940 Named four pocket SD tunic of WW1 & Interwar Officer British army Lieutenant General Henry Karslake who had a long & varied career through the Boer War , Great war , South Africa & India before being recalled from retirement to serve with the British Expeditionary Force in France June 1940. Amongst numerous postings he was a Royal Artillery officer being with the 129th Howitzer Battery in 1914 , Brigade Major Dec. 1914 , General Staff Officer August 1915 & Brigade General of the Tank Corps in October 1918 . He then went on to have postings interwar serving in South Africa & also as Aide-De-Camp to the King from 1930- 1931 before being Major General Royal Artillery Indian from 1931-1933. He was District Officer Commanding Baluchistan District India from 1933 - 1935. Retired in 1936 he was briefly recalled in 1939 becoming General Officer Commanding Lines of Communication British Expeditionary Force , France in June 1940 . Whilst there at Le Mans he reported to Lieutenant -General Sir Alan Brooke ( Commanding 11 Corps BEF ) the enemies situation & their believed intention to move South to encircle Paris . He died in 1942. Tunic is a classic four pocket large bellow pockets & mitre cuffed cut made by the Calcutta firm Phelps & Co indicating his purchasing of it when he served in India in the early thirties . The Phelps & Co tailor label appears to the rear lining of the tunic itself but also to the underside of the right hand breast pocket flap with the name ' Maj Gen Karslake , No. 9286 & date 18/11/32 ' . In quite excellent condition all of its original insignia is present with red tabs to the lapels , General rank to shoulders & brass General rank buttons to front fly & pockets. His impressive collection of medal ribbons are present to left breast , of note in particular are the 1914 star with 1914 clasp represented by aqsilver rosette on the ribbon awarded to those who had served under fire or who had operated within range of enemy mobile artillery in France or Belgium during the period between 5 August and 22 November 1914 . There is also an Mentioned In Despatches 'oakleaf' on his Victory medal. The tunic of this extraordinary man has survived very well with only a few pin prick moth holes visible in places upon close examination.
Uniforms & Equipment Of The British Army In WW1 - Steve Chambers This book contains over 600 rare and never before published photographs of the British Soldier in World War I. The quality images selected were photographed in peace and wartime, in the studio and the field, and show in detail the service dress uniform, equipment and weapons in use by the British Army between 1900-1918. The chapters contain photographic postcards of: Infantry officers and other ranks, Dominion Troops, Infantry Weapons, Machine Gun and Tank Corps, Royal Artillery, Wheels and Transport, Army Service Corps, Royal Army Medical Corps, Royal Engineers, Royal Flying Corps and Battle Insignia. Also included is a full color section of Army, Corps and Divisional signs. Each photograph caption has been carefully and thoroughly researched affording the reader information not to be found in any other single source. The introduction discusses early war photography and goes into further detail on the service dress and equipment to make this a must book for the military historian, collector, researcher, modeller and general enthusiast.
Untouched & Always Been Together Vietnam War USMC Helmet With Graffiti On Cover - Tet Offensive Period A Vietnam war period United States Marine Corps helmet with graffiti written onto its camouflage cover by the Marine who wore it. Graffiti scrawled onto the cover by the Marine who wore it includes on one side \'BUCKEYE STATE\' (slang for Ohio) & also the unit markings of LSU 3/1\' on side & rear. Opposite side has \'OHIO,Columbus\' & what appears to be \'CHICAGO, ILLINOIS\' . Cover shows extensive combat wear with edges worn into the edges of the shell. Helmet itself is of the rear seam swivel bales type & a former para helmet with the liners \'A\' straps cut off this being typical of Marine examples of around the 1969 - Tet Offensive period. A name is handwritten to interior of liner. The camouflage cover is an early DSA marked example the DSA contract number of 100/393 referring to the year 1966 . Being of this earlier design the flaps of the cover are longer & thus slits had to be cut into them to facilitate the chinstraps going through on each side. With a very large amount of sweat & mud clearly in evidence on the inside & out of the helmet this is a truly well worn Marine Corps combat helmet of the Vietnam war.
Untouched Souvenir Time Capsule WW2 US M1 Fixed Bales , Front Seam Helmet A recently surfaced & untouched from WW2 US M1 steel helmet complete with its original rare early war leather liner chinstrap . This front seam , fixed bales helmet can easily be dated at around the 1943 period & was probably issued to one of the Gis billleted in England just prior to the D Day landings. Its cork mixed olive green paint can be seen to exterior of the Schleuter made shell with stainless steel rim still bearing a large proportion of the paint. The Schlueter Manufacturing Company were contracted to produce shells from June 6th 1942. The fixed bales date this piece to before the end of 1943 with the front seam remaining unchanged until November 1944. Both of the webbing chinstraps are early with sharp J hook edges & raised bar cast buckle. Liner bears the MA motif for the firm \' Mine Safety Appliances \' actually one of those who produced an only minimal number of liners compared to some other firms. The A washers are in green painted steel used around the period from mid 1943 - mid 1944 the green coating believed to have been introduced to avoid corrosion to the steel. Liner system is intact with leather sewn handband & nape strap bearing the production number \'16874\' by the firm SMC which denotes a contract issued on October 28th 1943. The rare first type leather chinstrap is still on the helmet this being a very difficult component to find today. Its early wartime manufacture is denoted by the flat steel straight edge buckle used on helmets of the 1942 to mid 1943 period. It is totally intact undamaged example with the \'UNITED CARR\' name to reverse of rivet head. Exterior of the liner is painted in the typical wartime green . At some point the helmet has had the name \'MUNSON\' painted onto the front of it with four stars drawn underneath . We can only draw our own conclusions as to the story behind it however I ma inclined to go with soldiers humour ! An overall fabulously complete & untouched M1 helmet representing the American GI of the midwar period onwards.
Untouched WW1 German Baden 110th Reserve Infantry Pickelhaube A superb timecapsule M.95 enlisted mans issue pickelhaube of the Baden 110th Reserve Infantry Regiment. Of typical blackened leather construction it has the correct Baden helmet plate for one of its Reserve infantry regiments having no motto on the bandeau under the winged griffin but instead a nickel reserve cross on its breast. Much of the original thin gilt wash remains . Regimentally marked to inside of rear peak for 110R JR 2nd Battalion ( 2nd Baden Grenadiers ) this was one of the three regiments of the 28th Reserve Division. Front plate is totally original to the helmet with correlating wear marks around the wing tips on the black shallac of the helmets front area. All fittings are of brass & all remain firm . Both cockades are intact & the thin leather black chinstrap is totally original as is the black dyed lambskin liner. Tightening lace present. There is handwritten writing in thin white paint as well as a name underneath that & also written onto the underside of the front peak. Overall a very nice piece.
US Vietnam M1 Combat Helmet A text book example US combat helmet of the Vietnam period with all parts dating from mid conflict period. Helmet has the early camouflage cover in twill material dating from the mid 1960s , these were made from a different material soon after this date & the contract number on the underside of one of the tongues gives us the date of \'65 incorporated into the number. The helmet band in place around the helmet is of period origin the later postwar issues being of a different design. All of the blackened chinstrap hardware is totally correct for the period with anchor manufacturer logo to the buckle seen in use from the late 1950s until 1967. This company changed after this date & no longer used the anchor design. Liner is marked with several markings which give us the dates of its components the most obvious being the clipped in headband which is ink stamped by Steinberg Bros with the \'DSA\' letters & date \'71\' again incorporated into the contract number. The initials \'DSA\' are an ordnance contract marking only used up to 1976 , it was replaced after this date by different lettering. The webbing of the fixed liner system is stamped with the date \'18FEB64\' . Overall a superb early piece which dates from the thick of the Vietnam fighting.
US Vietnam M1 Combat Helmet With Soldier Graffiti A text book example US combat helmet of the Vietnam period with soldier graffiti drawn onto the cover & all parts dating from the conflict period. Helmet has the early camouflage cover in twill material dating from the mid 1960s , these were constructed from a different material soon after this date & the contract number on the underside of one of the tongues gives us the date period of 1964-65. The helmet band in place around the helmet is of period origin the later postwar issues being of a different design. The blackened chinstrap hardware is totally correct for the period with a date range from 1967 until 1973 . Liner webbing is marked with the date '19MAR69' & also the the initials 'DSA' are an ordnance contract marking only used up to 1976 , it was replaced after this date by different lettering. Overall a superb early piece which dates from the thick of the Vietnam fighting.
US Vietnam M1C Paratrooper Combat Helmet If you want one good classic Vietnam period US combat helmet to go with your M1 helmet collection then this piece may be for you. Complete with its camouflage cover & issue helmet band this heavily worn helmet has all the charactor of one that has been in the thick of jungle action with a well fielded camouflage cover showing dirt , grime & rust bleed that has come through from the helmet shell beneath it. Upon examination of the cover with the liner removed it is immediately apparent that it has not been off the helmet for many years & would have to be literally peeled off if one were to try to remove it in its entirety. This really is how a field lived in combat helmet & cover should be ! The helmet band when pulled back displays age discolouration & weathering to the non exposed areas evidencing its prolonged fitment to this helmet. The contract number under one of the tongues date it to the mid 1960s & there is much wear at the creases of the cover where folded over the rim. Helmet shell has olive green chinstraps & buckles typical of the Vietnam period with anchorless fastening buckle as was seen from 1967 onwards. The liner has ink markings to one side very typical of the 1960s period & white tab to underside of the central headstrap yoke. This white tab stopped being applied from around the early 1970s. Being the paratrooper M1C helmet it has the four holed webbing chincup system with marking \'US\' to webbing of the chincup. There is rust to liner rivets & a tear to front headband section. A fabulous M1C combat helmet .
US Vietnam War Helmet With Soldier Graffiti A text book example US combat helmet of the Vietnam period with soldier graffiti drawn onto the cover & all parts dating from the mid Vietnam war period. Helmet has a heavily used camouflage Mitchell cover with DSA contract date of 1969. There is faded thick writing in a purple pen to the front of it which may be a name with some straight notch type strikes along one edge on the left side. There is also something drawn in pen now largely not discernable. All of the blackened chinstrap hardware is totally correct for the period with anchor manufacturer logo to the buckle seen in use from the late 1950s until 1967. This company changed after this date & no longer used the anchor design. The initials 'DSA' on the cover are an ordnance contract marking only used up to 1976 , it was replaced after this date by different lettering. The webbing of the fixed liner system is well used & has its original headband.There are faint ink markings now unreadable. There is some fraying to the long chinstrap. Overall helmet of the US forces which dates from the thick of the Vietnam fighting.
Verdun Interest - WW1 French Named Infantry Souvenir Plaque Adrian Helmet 86th Inf.Regt Wounded At Saint Quentin A very nice example of the WW1 M15 French Adrian helmet with named brass veterans souvenir plaque mounted to the front brim that has the inscription 'Demobilise 13/9/19 Jules Vechambre ' . I have attached a copy of his service record from the archives which can be forwarded to the purchaser by email. At the end of WW1 the French government awarded each officer & soldier of the armed forces a helmet as a souvenir with an embossed brass plaque designed to be mounted on the front brim. The inscription on the plaque read ' SOLDAT DE LA GRANDE GUERRE 1914-1918 ' . Helmet has a very high proportion of its original blue factory paint remaining with infantry flaming grenade 'RF' marked badge to front which is totally original to the helmet. Chinstrap intact. Liner is of the second model issued from 1916 when multi piece liners were constructed to save on leather. The inscription reads 'Demobilise 15/9/19 Jules Vechambre ' ( Demobilised 15/9/19 Jules Vechambre ) . We have been able to locate this soldier in the French army archives & have ascertained that he fought with the 86th Infantry Regiment . He was wounded in April 1917 at Saint Quentin around the time of the Nivelle offensive . The 86th Infantry Regiment fought at Verdun , ( Fort de Vaux , Cote 304 , Beaumont ) & The Somme ( Vermandovillers Ablaincourt , Champagne Monthois Vouziers , Vandy ) & Mort - Homme in the Argonne .
Waffen SS 'Reichsfuhrer-SS' KIA Document & Photograph Grouping Interesting group to a member of the SS Panzer Grenadier Division 'Reichsfuhrer-SS' who joined the Waffen SS in January 1944 & was Killed In Action in Italy in 1944 . Group comprises five photographs of SS Sturmann Dieter Albrecht in SS service uniform with runes evidently taken early in his service when he was still a junior rank. One of the photographs is a large size with also two framed shots which have been in the family. There are also two smaller photographs of members of the family, looking like mother & sister, & also two of him when he was a boy. A typed letter from SS Unterscharfuhrer Hans Wendland who was the adjutant of 3KP SS Panzer Grenadier Regiment 36 at the time is dated 14/10/1944 & is addressed to the Albrecht family. It states how on 10/10/44 Dieter died from a head shot in battle & goes on to give further details of the action in which he was killed. The final photograph accompanying the group is of his grave & headstone. There is also an obituary in a 'Mitteilungsblatt' periodical dated 1963 stating him to be a gymnast prior to joining the Wafen SS. SS PZ. Gren Reg 36 was one of the main combat units of the Division which is recorded at this time to have been much used for security duties & anti- partisan sweeps.
Waffen SS Officers M43 Einheitsfeldmutze From Normandy If you are looking for an M43 officers cap that you can definitively identify as Waffen SS then this \'salty\' heavily worn piece may be for you. Coming some years ago from the area of St Denis la Gast in the August 1944 Operation Cobra area this cap has been stripped of its insignia however has the distinct imprint of where the SS skull was situated to the front & the SS cap eagle to the side. The rest of the nap of the cloth of the cap is very well weathered down & highlights the imprint of the removed insignia very well ( See images ) . There is sweat staining coming through the area where the brim meets the body of the cap this visible also on the underside. The officers crown piping is very well worn down with only a few stitches of its placement being now visible. Both silver officer buttons to the front are totally original to the cap & show the very typical chain stitch to reverse. There is a small hole from what appears to be a cigarette burn to the front right of where the skull sat measuring approx 1/2 cm in diameter. Inside of the cap again shows heavy wear with a torn lining which nicely exposes the construction of the cap. Underneath the rayon lining can be seen a jute lining around the sides of the cap with the underside of the officers piping seated in areas of the crown. The lining still has some very faint now illegible markings however the last line appears to be the maker address of \' Boxhagen Strase16\' or similar . I have provided images & am confident that further research would identify this maker. A true SS Officer combat cap & a one off that has without doubt seen much action.
WW1 / WW2 US M17A1 Steel Helmet With Officer Rank Markings An interesting study of early WW2 US headgear would certainly include the M17A1 helmet which was the standard steel helmet used by US forces up until the introduction of the M1 in 1941 . A British WW1 pattern adopted by the US army in 1917 the helmet was upgraded in 1936 with the addition of a new leather liner & buckled chinstrap. This is an excellent textbook example with the web chinstrap & buckle hook arrangement being instantly recognisable as that carried over to the M1. Original rough green paint to its exterior with officers Lieutenant rank bars painted to front . Underside of helmet shows typical smooth finish with steel lot number \' Z0216 \' . Soldiers name & number to leather of liner . Strengthening stitching to long strap where frayed. A very nice example.
WW1 114th Infantry Regiment 1877 Pattern Greatcoat- As Worn 1914 If you are looking for a mint example of the rare French M1877 Greatcoat then read no further ! This heavily worn prewar piece is as was worn by French troops in the early 1914 period until the introduction of the Horizon Blue uniform shortly after the war began. It has moth issues which are well photographed however still a rare item considering it was made over 100 years ago. Made of 90% dark blue woollen cloth with a 10% white wool mix this coat was officially issued as the main garment after 1855 both in winter & summer. All six rows of its large tombac buttons are present to the front with front skirt buttons intact allowing the coats bottom corners to be buttoned back. The leather reinforced loop to rear left side is present allowing support of the belt equipment & to attach the bayonet frog. Standup collar has red scalloped patches of the 114th Infantry Regiment & may well be very old replacements. Interior of coat has off white linin lining with profuse stampings . A faint maker stamp is present now illegible with size markings to left breast. The regimental marking of ' 4e75' appears to left breast with some other issue marks ( See images ) . There are a number of patch repairs applied to the inside of the coat with some repair around the bottom of the collar area although overall for its long service life & age it has survived very well. A rare item applicable to the early 1914 battles of WW1 & almost impossible to find at all in any condition.
WW1 1908 Pattern Webbing Equipment Set ( 1915 Belt ) A near complete & very close pea green colour matched set of the First world war soldiers 1908 pattern web equipment . Set comprises the following with dates shown where are legible; Waistbelt 1915 1 Pr Shoulder straps N/K 1 Pr Cartridge pouches L-1918 , R - Faded 1 Bayonet frog with helve strap N/K 1 Entrenching tool carrier 1918 1 Waterbottle & carrier 1919 Some dates are visible ( as above ) & some not. Cartridge pouches have various regimental/issue markings with the date being visible only on the left side. Only one stud minus from left side lower pouch. Bayonet frog is the scarcer correct WW1 issue still with its helve strap most, of which, were later removed. The hard to come by entrenching tool carrier is 1918 dated & also N marked for naval issue . Overall a very good set with some service use & a good representation of the WW1 British infantry soldier. ( Tunic for display & not for sale ) .
WW1 1908 Pattern Webbing Equipment Set ( 1915 Belt ) A pea green colour matched set of the First world war soldiers 1908 pattern web equipment . Set comprises the following with dates shown where are legible; Waistbelt 1915 1 Pr Shoulder straps N/K 1 Pr Cartridge pouches L-1918 , R - Faded 1 Bayonet frog with helve strap N/K 1 Entrenching tool carrier 1918 1 Waterbottle & carrier 1919 Cartridge pouches have various regimental/issue markings with the date 1918 being visible only on the left side. 1915 date to belt & 1918 to entrenching tool carrier.( '19 to waterbottle cradle) . Only one stud minus from left side lower pouch. Bayonet frog is the scarcer correct WW1 issue still with its helve strap most, of which, were later removed. The hard to come by entrenching tool carrier is 1918 dated & also N marked for naval issue . Overall a very good set with some service use & a good representation of the WW1 British infantry soldier. ( Tunic for display & not for sale ) .
WW1 American Camouflage M17 Helmet A fabulous WW1 US Brodie helmet in four colour camouflage scheme of the period. This helmet is one of the earlier British made examples of which 400,000 were sent to the USA upon their entry into WW1 in 1917. A concept inspired by the German idea of camouflage & the American popularity of souveniring their helmets many of the US issues were camouflaged after the end of the first world war with the colours on many being very visually striking to say the least. This fabulous piece is in a class of its own having four different roughly granulated colours all divided with random patterned black seperation lines. Interior of the helmet displays its original khaki factory paint with steel lot number & maker initials \' MLS69\' . Liner system & chinstrap intact . The 35th Division arrived at Le Havre, France, on 11 May 1918. The 35th served first, a brigade at a time, in the Vosges mountains between 30 June and 13 August. The whole division served in the Gerardmer sector, Alsace, 14 August to 1 September; Meuse-Argonne, 21 to 30 September; Sommedieu sector, 15 October, to 6 November. Men of the division spent ninety-two days in quiet sectors and five in active; advanced twelve and one half kilometres against resistance, captured 781 prisoners, and lost 1,067 killed and 6,216 wounded.The 35th Division had as an officer Captain Harry Truman, 33rd President of the United States, who commanded Battery D of the 129th Field Artillery Regiment.
WW1 Australian Grenade Bombing School Notes Of Ypres KIA Casualty 1917 A wonderful book of handwritten notes compiled by Frederik Thomas Grey of the 10th Battalion Australian Infantry ( AIF) who was later Killed in Action on 21st September 1917 at Ypres. Notes are very well compiled & named to Grey with date 30th May 1916. The Bombing school was located at Mitcham , Adelaide & existed to teach the tactical & practical knowledge required regarding Grenade throwing methods from trench positions . Types of trench position , types of grenade ( Hand No.5 Mk1 Mills etc ) were an integral part of this Bombing school course which took place from May 30th to June 12th 1916. Many of the handwritten pages are accompanied by diagrams which he has drawn himself of the Mills No.5 Mk1 as well as Wests Spring Gun & Catapult . There is a small booklet of memorial poems 1914-1919 by Mary L Wyatt which includes a poem to Sergeant Fred Gray. Sergeant Gray is buried at the Ypres ( Menin Gate ) Memorial , he was 35.
WW1 Australian KIA Soldier Handwritten & Drawn Notes From Bombing School ( Sgt Fred Gray Died March 6th 1918 ) A fabulous hand drawn book by an Australian Sergeant of the 10th Battalion Australian Infantry Force completed whilst attending a Bombing Course at the Mitcham , Australia Bombing School from May 30th to June 12th 1916. The book is totally hand written & drawn by Sergeant 1074 Fred Gray who has written his name & the date 'May 30th 1916' to the front inside page of the first diagram at the beginning of the book . This first 'Diagram A' is a quite excellent hand drawn & annotated four page pullout of a trench system showing such details as First Line Fire Trench ', Officers Shelter , Support Trench , Loop Holes , Latrine , Bomb Thrower Emplacements , Attack or Jumping Trench Etc. The index of diagrams lists further trench related drawings with many of the grenades themselves shown in some very fine detail. Grenades drawn include the Hair Brush grenade, Mexican Grenade, .303 Short Rifle Grenade , Wests SPring Gun , Stokes Gun & Catapult Trench . A long list of bomb related topics including detonators, dynamite , explosives as well as general trench information are noted upon . At the back of the book are the names of the instructional personnel who ran the course including Chief Instructor Captain Cresswell , Sgt Major Korner & Sergeant Willaston. A truly unique item it is of sad note that Sergeant Fred Gray died on the 6th March 1918 & is buried in Adelaide military cemetery . I have not researched the cause of his death however the Kerwick Garrison MIlitary Hospital is located near to the cemetery & he may well have died there as a result of wounds received. Accompanying the book is a small booklet entitled ' 1914-1919 Remembering Those Years' in which several relevant poems are printed & sergeant Fred Gray is commemorated .
WW1 Australian Soldiers Handwritten & Drawn Notes From Bombing School ( Sgt Fred Gray Died March 6th 1918 ) A fabulous hand drawn book by an Australian Sergeant of the 10th Battalion Australian Infantry Force completed whilst attending a Bombing Course at the Mitcham , Australia Bombing School from May 30th to June 12th 1916. The book is totally hand written & drawn by Sergeant 1074 Fred Gray who has written his name & the date 'May 30th 1916' to the front inside page of the first diagram at the beginning of the book . This first 'Diagram A' is a quite excellent hand drawn & annotated four page pullout of a trench system showing such details as First Line Fire Trench ', Officers Shelter , Support Trench , Loop Holes , Latrine , Bomb Thrower Emplacements , Attack or Jumping Trench Etc. The index of diagrams lists further trench related drawings with many of the grenades themselves shown in some very fine detail. Grenades drawn include the Hair Brush grenade, Mexican Grenade, .303 Short Rifle Grenade , Wests SPring Gun , Stokes Gun & Catapult Trench . A long list of bomb related topics including detonators, dynamite , explosives as well as general trench information are noted upon . At the back of the book are the names of the instructional personnel who ran the course including Chief Instructor Captain Cresswell , Sgt Major Korner & Sergeant Willaston. A truly unique item it is of sad note that Sergeant Fred Gray died on the 6th March 1918 & is buried in Adelaide military cemetery . I have not researched the cause of his death however the Kerwick Garrison MIlitary Hospital is located near to the cemetery & he may well have died there as a result of wounds received. Accompanying the book is a small booklet entitled ' 1914-1919 Remembering Those Years' in which several relevant poems are printed & sergeant Fred Gray is commemorated .
WW1 Austrian Berndorfer Helmet A very rare Austrian 'Berndorfer' helmet complete with its original liner & chinstrap. This was the first steel helmet to be produced by Austria during the Great War its total production reaching only just under 140,000 . Made by 'Arthur Krupp A.G. Berndorf ' these were accepted into service in October 1916 , the first delivery taking place in May 1917. Production ceased in November 1917 when the last of the remaining 1,200 helmets were delivered. Distinctive in its wide brimmed appearance this helmet has the factory painted typically smooth light brown finish with the Krupp trademark of a bear & the size '64' stamped into the underside of its flared rear rim. The protruding disc to the top of the helmet is a part of the helmets ventilation system with their being four holes in the crown of the helmet underneath this. Fitted with a metal banded three pad leather liner system , the metal reinforcing eyelets to each tongue are distinctive to this helmet & were to take the drawstring . Coming complete with its original woven chinstrap , fastened with a clamp buckle as can also be found on the Model 1917 & 1918 Austrian helmets. Leather reinforcement is applied to the end & underside of the chinstrap in the areas prone to fraying. A rare opportunity to own one of these rarely seen Austrian combat helmets.
WW1 Austrian M16/17 Steel Combat Helmet Loft Find Helmet A superb untouched example of a recently 'loft found' Austrian M16/17 helmet. No doubt a British soldier souvenir of the Great War it is unusual to find any German helmet bringback now let alone an Austrian one. Much rarer than their German made counterparts the Austrian helmet is distinctive with its metal eyeletted liner pads, metal liner band , webbing chinstrap & the seperate placement of its lugs. The shell is marked 'AW' for the manufacturer 'A.Western , Cilli ' . Having not seen the light of day for many years a thin film of dirt covers the helmet with its Austrian factory brown colour being visible in places through the dirt. The interior of the helmet is the same but with its leather & webbing prong & buckle chinstrap very much intact. The three leather metal eyeletted liner pads are present & although one remains fully intact the four tongues are torn & only partially still present. I have made no attempt to clean this helmet however I believe its appearance would be enhanced with the most minimal of efforts.
WW1 Austrian M17 helmet One of the rarest camouflage helmets to find being the First World War M16-17 Austrian helmet. In 1918 German storm troops arrived in Austria from the Eastern front where the fighting had stopped due to the Russian revolution. Their presence on the Austrian front caused many changes to their tactics and almost caused the total defeat of the Italians. This helmet shows an Austrian interpretation of helmet camouflage in the three tone colours of green, yellow ochre & rust brown highly typical of combat pieces of the period. The helmet although incomplete in respect of liner and chinstrap still retains its Austrian metal liner band and high chinstrap brackets, their presence indicating early ( i.e,WW1 ) use as opposed to interwar or early Second War use. Some abrasions present to exterior of helmet from service use with light surface rust to interior.
WW1 Austrian M17 \'Loft Found\' Bringback Helmet An untouched 'loft found timecapsule' Austrian M16/17 bringback helmet. No doubt a British soldier souvenir of the Great War it is unusual to find any German helmet bringback let alone an Austrian one. Much rarer than their German made counterparts the Austrian helmet is distinctive with its metal eyeletted liner pads, metal liner band , webbing chinstrap & the seperate placement of its lugs. The shell is marked 'AW' for the manufacturer 'A.Western , Cilli ' & there is a heating lot code on the top of the helmet of 'L19' . Having not seen the light of day for many years a thin film of dirt covers the helmet with its Austrian factory brown colour being visible in places through the dirt. The interior of the helmet is the same but with its leather & webbing prong & buckle chinstrap very much intact. The three leather metal eyeletted liner pads are present & although one remains fully intact the four tongues are torn & only partially still present. I have made no attempt to clean this helmet .
WW1 Bavarian Chevaulegers Reserve Officers Pickelhaube A magnificent Imperial German M1886 Bavarian officers helmet having six ridged spike with clover leaf base & a squared visor as was worn by an officer of the Bavarian Chevaulegers Reserve. This impressive piece has the prewar high quality laurel wreathed helmet plate with domes chin scales , square cut front peak & removeable spike which could be removed & replaced with a horse hair plume on parade. Both of its original & correct officer cockades remain to either side of the helmet. I have made no attempt to undo the chinstrap catch this appearing not to have been disturbed for a very long time. Interior maroon satin & dark brown leather lining is intact with typically high quality apparent. In overall excellent condition the high gilt finish remains impressively striking throughout with crazing to the undamaged leather caused by earlier fitment of a cover at some point of its WW1 service. A top shelf piece & formerly of the legendary Michael Baldwin collection.
WW1 Bavarian M16 Enlisted Mans Greatcoat A superb example of the M16 Bavarian greatcoat with shoulderboards applicable to the 19th Bavarian Infantry Regiment. Imperial German uniform underwent modification as of September 1915 this including the greatcoat which was now of thicker material & with a better lining intended to be warmer for the troops wearing it . It is of note that the Bavarians kept their collar in field grey 'grundtuch' this possibly to remain identifiable from other troops. This pattern of greatcoat has several early features which were carried over to the new M1916 style with barrel cuffs & the earlier 1894/08 style of backless painted steel buttons . All buttons are present & original to the coat. Of depot issue , there is a clear boxed ink stamp denoting acceptance by the Bavarian III Corps clothing depot in 1917. Size markings appear below this. Having survived exceptionally well for a coat that is 100 years old there are some very modest repairs in places with some holes to the lower edge right cuff only noticeable when examined closely. A very rare item not often seen outside of well established museums today.
WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian Helmet A rare WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian helmet coming complete with original chinstrap & original lions head badge to front. By October 1915 the French began delivery of the first Adrian helmets to its allies , approximately 210,000 helmets had been delivered to the Belgians by the end of 1916. This magnificent example is in excellent condition with badge firm to the helmet & a very high percentage of its original brown paint remaining. Various shades of brown & other paint finishes may be encountered on the Belgian issues , this has received two coats with a slightly lighter brown finish visible to the interior crown area. To the underside of the front peak can be seen the scratched soldiers name with some punched in numbers to the underside of the rear . The liner is of post 1916 multi construction complete with drawstring & all intact tongues . The brown leather chinstrap is in impressively good condition with adjustment buckle intact. A superb example of the Belgian Adrian helmet & very hard to find now.
WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian Helmet A rare WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian helmet coming complete with original chinstrap & original lions head badge to front. By October 1915 the French began delivery of the first Adrian helmets to its allies , approximately 210,000 helmets had been delivered to the Belgians by the end of 1916. This magnificent example is in excellent condition with badge firm to the helmet & a very high percentage of its original brown paint remaining. Various shades of brown & other paint finishes may be encountered on the Belgian issues , this helmet still retains its original first factory issue paint throughout. The liner is of post 1916 multi construction complete with drawstring & all intact tongues . The often missing brown leather chinstrap is in impressively good condition with adjustment buckle intact. A superb example of the Belgian Adrian helmet & one that has become very hard to find now.
WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian Helmet A rare WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian helmet coming complete with original chinstrap & original lions head badge to front. By October 1915 the French began delivery of the first Adrian helmets to its allies , approximately 210,000 helmets had been delivered to the Belgians by the end of 1916. This field used example is in trench worn condition with badge firm to the helmet & a good percentage of its original khaki brown paint remaining. Various shades of brown & other paint finishes may be encountered on the Belgian issues . Liner is of post 1916 multi construction complete with all intact tongues . The often missing leather chinstrap is in impressively good condition with adjustment buckle intact. A superb example of the Belgian Adrian helmet & one that has become very hard to find now. The name 'SCHEPPER' can be seen scratched to the underside of the front lip.
WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian Helmet A rare WW1 Belgian M15 Adrian helmet coming complete with original chinstrap & original lions head badge to front. By October 1915 the French began delivery of the first Adrian helmets to its allies , approximately 210,000 helmets had been delivered to the Belgians by the end of 1916. This magnificent example is in excellent condition with badge firm to the helmet & a very high percentage of its original brown paint remaining. Various shades of brown & other paint finishes may be encountered on the Belgian issues , this helmet still retains its original first factory issue paint throughout. The liner is of post 1916 multi construction complete with all intact tongues . The often missing brown leather chinstrap is in impressively good condition with adjustment buckle intact. A superb example of the Belgian Adrian helmet & one that has become very hard to find now.
WW1 Bringback Souvenir Grouping Of German Items An interesting grouping of items that were all brought back by the same British soldier from WW1. I recently acquired this grouping privately so have kept it together untouched & as it came. Group comprises : 1. \'07 Feldmutze ( 6th Army Group Marked ) 2. Cartridge ammunition Pouch ( Spandau marked & 16 Dated ) 3. 1914 Dated & Hamburg Marked Prussian Belt Buckle 4. 1917 Dated Belt Leather 5. 37th Infantry Regiment M15 Shoulder Strap 6. 141st Infantry regiment Simplified M15 shoulder strap 7. Scarce Minenwerfer ( Trench Mortar ) Shoulder Strap With red chainstitched lettering & numbers \'MW35\' The souvenired \'07 pattern feldmutze is of early construction with red piped black band & with one cockade remaining to front. The issue stamp of the 6th Army Group is visible to interior lining. Prussian buckle is leather tabbed with clear maker & 1914 date. The belt leather is \'LZA\' & maker marked with 1917 dated. It has been shortened & now with no tongue. All three of the shoulder straps have moth having been stored away for many years. Very nice little lot of WW1 German items.
WW1 British '08 Pattern Rare Pre War Early Smallpack With Waterbottle Tab To Top Flap A hard to find component of the '08 webbing equipment this haversack is of the November 1909 pattern with tab & strap to attach the waterbottle on its top flap. These were simplified in Feb/March of 1914 with this provision removed. Undoubtedly these would have still been in use by British troops in the earliest 1914 battles of WW1 with their service continuing through with troops that already had them. This piece is broad arrow marked & dated 1912 with the pre war makers name of a well established leather equipment producer Hazel & Co . Although Mills ( MECo ) & M.Wright & Sons (MW&S) were the only companies authorised to produce the 1908 pattern webbing equipment this well established pre war maker struck a deal with Mills to handle sales to the Territorial Associations until its until war broke out in August 1914. Thus actual piece is featured in the '08 Haversack' section of the superb website ' Karkee web ' where more detaill can be sen regarding its manufacture.
WW1 British .303 Matching Numbers P14 Rifle With Volley Sight Dial & Early Brass Butt Disc Iconic 1914 pattern (P14) British service rifle of the First World War period. A bolt action rifle the P14 was said to be an advanced design of its time being possibly the most advanced service rifle of WW1. It was more accurate, more durable & had nearly the same rate of fire as the SMLE however the magazine had only half the capacity & on the whole it was much heavier . Due to the need for smallarms in the WW1 period & the already stretched industrial output the British government contracted with US manufacturers this example being made by Eddystone. The P14 was well used by the Home Guard in WW2 . Eddystone marking of 'ERA' is to be seen on the receiver of this rifle with matching serial numbers to receiver & its dog leg bolt. This rifle is still in its WW1 configuration complete with volley fire sight dial ( No arm ) & early brass butt disc which are in most cases missing on P14 rifles seen today. Woodwork is excellent with typical light service use & profuse ordnance markings throughout inclluding ' Patt '14 ' to stock. Metal surfaces still retain most of their original blueing. Rifle capable of being cocked & dryfired & still with a nicely workable bolt action. Deactivated to Home Office specifications with deactivation certificate supplied. UK sales only.
WW1 British .303 P14 Rifle With Volley Sights & Early Brass Butt Disc Iconic 1914 pattern (P14) British service rifle of the First World War period. A bolt action rifle the P14 was said to be an advanced design of its time being possibly the most advanced service rifle of WW1. It was more accurate, more durable & had nearly the same rate of fire as the SMLE however the magazine had only half the capacity & on the whole it was much heavier . Due to the need for smallarms in the WW1 period & the already stretched industrial output the British government contracted with US manufacturers this example being made by Remington. The P14 was well used by the Home Guard in WW2 . Remington marking of 'RE' is to be seen on the receiver of this rifle with matching serial numbers to receiver & its dog leg bolt. This rifle is still in its WW1 configuration complete with volley fire sights & early brass butt disc which are in most cases missing on P14 rifles seen today. Woodwork is excellent with typical light service use also metal surfaces still retain most of their original blueing. Rifle capable of being cocked & dryfired & still with a nicely workable bolt action. Deactivated to Home Office specifications with deactivation certificate supplied. UK sales only.
WW1 British 02 Pattern Engineers Signal Service Tunic A WW1 standard issue 1902 pattern tunic to a member of the Royal Engineers Signal Service. It was the Royal Engineers who provided signals troops right up until the formation of the Royal Signals in 1920 hence the tunic having Royal Engineers buttons & RE shoulder titles . The wearing of armbands in the signals colours of blue & white by signallers was standard & often preferred by wearers directly sewn onto the sleeves of there tunics for practicality. Brass Signaller insignia is fitted to the lower left sleeve with one Good Conduct chevron indicating two years. Right sleeve bears three blue overseas stripes. Tunic has interior partial lining which shows a common mix of glazed cotton for the pocket reinforcements & khaki drill for the pockets. The name & number of the owner is written onto the rear of one pocket & also the rear of the right side pocket reinforcement strip. An untouched WW1 tunic with original insignia straight out of the attic !
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Army Service Corps Divisional Ammunition Supply Originally Badged Tunic A WW1 standard issue 1902 pattern tunic to a member of the Army Service Corps serving with a Divisional Ammunition Supply Column. The 'Shellshifters' were responsible for the important task of moving ammunition & wore the shell shaped handsewn badge in Divisional colours ( Light blue & dark blue here ) to both shoulders . This tunic has brass ASC titles to both shoulders with all ASC buttons to shoulders & front fastening. The cloth flashes are crudely hand applied but in my opinion totally original to the tunic. There are two blue overseas chevrons to lower right sleeve. Its interior partial lining shows a common mix of glazed cotton for the pocket reinforcements & khaki drill for the pockets. Remnants of the paper label & only one rear brass equipment hook remains. There is some moth to the front of the tunic in between the second & third buttonhole down, also to the rear ( See pictures ) . An untouched WW1 tunic with original insignia straight out of the attic !
WW1 British 1902 Pattern ORs Greatcoat A fine example of the rare 1902 pattern dismounted Greatcoat. This is the second type as issued during the First World War from the 1915 to 1917 timeframe. The Greatcoat retains the deep turnback cuffs which were eliminated in 1917 & has half white wool lining to shoulders & the WW1 off white lining & reinforcements . Pocket flap backings in wool consumate with all WW1 ORs garments. Faint number over letter marking to pocketbag. Although WW1 OR garments came in a plethora of different hues & tones of khaki, this garment is in the sought after classic ginger colour! The garment has one or two cancelled theatrical stamps to the interior & two small old repairs to the front skirt however not detracting from the overall external appearance. All buttons & closure hooks remain to the epaulettes, there are a period pair of curved Middlesex shoulder titles with a collector repair however this does not detract from its external appearance. Good opportunity to acquire an important element of WW1 'Tommy' clothing.
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Service Dress Tunic A scarce WW1 British other ranks service tunic in khaki wool & of the 1902/07 pattern which was being worn by Britains troops as they marched into the first world war. Tunic has two hook fastening to its stand & fall collar ( 1915 onwards ) & also the expected ' two dart ' stitching to upper breast/collar area. This was changed to only one dart in 1918. Other typical characteristics are its WW1 off white reinforcement lining to interior with all pocket flap backings in wool which is totally correct for all WW1 OR garments. All of its brass GS buttons are original to the tunic , there are also three blue overseas chevrons to lower right sleeve indicating this tunic having seen field use with the wearer on active service overseas. Number over letter ink stamp clearly visible on inside reinforcing panel. War & Victory medal ribbons to left breast. There is , of course , a fair spattering of moth to the tunic as can be seen in the images however being a surviving service worn field tunic of the first world war it is prudent that some allowance be made given the history of this wonderful piece.
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Service Trousers A rare pair of definitively WW1 issue British \'02 Service Dress trousers with double buttons denoting manufacture after June 1915. Straight legged & with two slashed side pockets the early prewar pattern changed with slight modifications being made according to soldiers field use feedback as the war progressed. As seen here the single braces buttons around the internal waistband were doubled as of June 1915 with a double strengthening stitch introduced to the pocket base which puts them in the 1915-1918 bracket. All of its doubled zinc buttons are present to waistband & front fly. The broad arrow & WD ink stamp here s only seen on earlier issues so manufacture likely to be around the latter part of 1915 . A very good mannequin size the waistband is an approx 32in waist , Inside leg an approx 31in leg ( Sizes are not guaranteed ). There are a few small moth nips which can be found upon close examination & also a small spattering of moth holes around the crotch area although the rarity of these trousers far outweighs their non perfect condition .
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Service Tunic A rare WW1 British four pocket service tunic of the wartime 1902 pattern still with much of its manufacturers paper label remaining to inside. This is a tunic that has clearly seen WW1 service & is presented as found with its period placed three blue embroidered overseas service chevrons to lower right sleeve & Army Service Corps brass shoulder titles to each shoulder. These do appear to have been on the tunic for a considerable amount of time with correlating age shadowing visible underneath the outer edges. Paper label is largely remaining with a good proportion of its nomenclature still being legible. Two brass belt equipment hooks are , as expected , stitched into waist with the instantly recognisable 'two dart' stitching to upper breast/collar area. This changed to only one dart in 1918 firmly dating this to a wartime manufacture. Other classic period features are its off white cotton drill lining to interior with strip backing for the top pockets ( denoting mid to late manufacture ) & field dressing pocket to lower right side. All buttons are brass General Service & appearing to be original to the tunic. Condition is overall very good for a scarce tunic of this now sought after period which does display very well with belt equipment however certain allowances must of course be made for the inevitable few moth nips which can be seen on the lower front , arms & back in various places. ( Belt not included ) .
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Service Tunic A WW1 British four pocket service tunic of the wartime 1902 pattern still with much of its manufacturers paper label remaining to inside. This is a tunic that has clearly seen WW1 service & is presented as found with its period placed three blue embroidered overseas service chevrons to lower right sleeve. Paper label is largely remaining with a good proportion of its nomenclature still being legible. Two brass belt equipment hooks are , as expected , stitched into waist with the instantly recognisable two dart stitching to upper breast/collar area. This changed to only one dart in 1918 firmly dating this to a wartime manufacture. Other classic period features are its off white cotton drill lining to interior with strip backing for the top pockets ( denoting mid to late manufacture ) & field dressing pocket to lower right side. All buttons are brass General Service & appearing to be original to the tunic. Condition is overall very good for a scarce tunic of this now sought after period which does display very well with belt equipment however certain allowances must of course be made for the inevitable few moth nips which can be seen on the lower front , arms & back .
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Tunic A rare WW1 British four pocket service tunic of the wartime 1902 pattern still with much of its manufacturers paper label remaining to inside. This is a tunic that has clearly seen WW1 service & is presented as found with its period placed three blue embroidered overseas service chevrons to lower right sleeve & Army Service Corps brass shoulder titles to each shoulder. These do appear to have been on the tunic for a considerable amount of time with correlating age shadowing visible underneath the outer edges. Paper label is largely remaining with a good proportion of its nomenclature still being legible. Two brass belt equipment hooks are , as expected , stitched into waist with the instantly recognisable 'two dart' stitching to upper breast/collar area. This changed to only one dart in 1918 firmly dating this to a wartime manufacture. Other classic period features are its off white cotton drill lining to interior with strip backing for the top pockets ( denoting mid to late manufacture ) & field dressing pocket to lower right side. All buttons are brass General Service & appearing to be original to the tunic. Condition is overall very good for a scarce tunic of this now sought after period which does display very well with belt equipment however certain allowances must of course be made for the inevitable few moth nips which can be seen on the lower front , arms & back in various places. ( Belt not included ) .
WW1 British 1902 Pattern Tunic , 1914 Dated A scarce 1914 dated 1902 pattern tunic showing all of the typical manufacturing traits one would expect to see on a tunic of this early period. There is also an interesting regimental ink stamp to inside top buttonhole area appearing to be for the Sussex regiment ( SX) & of the type commonly seen stamped onto '08 pattern webbing equipment. Remains of the paper label can still be seen to the inside with a detached part of it still preserved & with the tunic showing clear date of 1914. This of course ties in with the construction detail of the interior breast pocket reinforcement in the form of squares of glazed cotton later replaced by one piece strips running straight across the rear of the pocket. Glazed cotton field dressing pocket is intact showing hand stitching around its longer edges most common on earlier production pieces . Brass GS buttons are present throughout with sergeant chevrons to both sleeves & also Machine Gun patch to lower left . Four overseas service chevrons to lower right . In a good large size & surprisingly with no moth at all this is a rare early tunic to find in such excellent condition.
WW1 British 1905 Pattern Grenadier Guards Cap A rare WW1 1905 pattern cap of the Grenadier Guards. This was the standard headdress of the British infantryman before the introduction of the steel Brodie helmet in 1915 & was thus worn in action by the British soldier at the earliest engagements of 1914 & 15 . It is almost impossible to find original Great War examples today many offered simply being of post WW1 manufacture. A not too difficult examination of this fine piece soon establishes the key points of a true WW1 example there being no external line of stitching visible at the join of the band & crown & a distinctively short peak much different to later post war examples. Finally the thin brown leather chinstrap is an approx 1/4 inch wide with corner rounded brass buckles. Buttons in this case are of the correct Guards style. Interior lining has survived very well with white 'W/ID' number & letter stamping 'L' . As with many uniform items of this age the peak has some holes with this having occurred underneath the right side of the chinstrap also but only visible when the strap is lifted.
WW1 British 1905 Pattern SD Cap - Royal Artillery A rarely encountered 1905 pattern Service Dress cap ( Stiff Cap ) introduced in 1905 as universal headwear for all Other Ranks except for Scottish troops & those serving in hot climates. Constructed in the same khaki wool cloth as the service dress jacket & trousers the band is formed of stiffened buckram , card & black oilskin with the small peak in stiffened card covered on its underside in green paper cloth. Two eyelets on each side over the ears provide ventilation these being of the correct large size denoting WW1 period issue. Later post WW1 versions were smaller in size. With an adjustable chinstrap of the pattern seen from 1908 onwards this is held in place by two brass general service buttons. The oilskin cap lining is ink stamped to its underside with the initials \'RGA\' for Royal Garrison Artillery & soldiers service number \'129125\'. The inspectors number, War Department initials , broad arrow & letter referring to the depot it passed through are white ink stamped straight onto the lining. With Royal Artillery badge to front this has always been on there & is as found. Overall in very good condition with grubby wear marks to the top of the crown & underside of peak where continuously handled. Clearly, the lining is heavily sweat stained from heavy wear. There is a very small moth bite to one seam on the peak area only noticeable upon close inspection.
WW1 British 1907 Pattern Hooked Quillon 'Gallipoli' 4th South Wales Borderers Marked Bayonet A scarce first world war 1907 pattern hooked quillon bayonet with unit markings for the 4th battalion South Wales Borderers who took heavy casualties in the Dardenelles campaign in June 1915 . This is a fabulously clean example in excellent condition having virtually all of its original factory blueing remaining & only very light signs of its age in places . Walnut grips are excellent . Made by Enfield the ricasso has the expected 1907 pattern date & issue date of September 1911. Broad arrow & inspection markings to reverse side. It has the correct early brown MK1 internally chaped scabbard with ordnance markings & the date 1909 clearly visible to reverse. Not only is this a desirable example by its condition but also by the unit to which it belonged. The 4th South Wales Borderers were raised as part of the new army in 1914 & landed at Sulva on 15th July 1915. They met heavy fire on the beach & took heavy casualties including their Commanding officer. A highly desirable example & one which most likely saw action at Gallipoli.
WW1 British 1908 Pattern Webbing Cartridge Pouch 1914 Dated First World War 1908 pattern Left side webbing cartridge carrier clearly broad arrow marked & dated 1914. 75 rounds were intended to be carried in these pouches , this being the Mk II pattern introduced in 1914 with straps to prevent accidental loss of ammunition. Overall in used condition but with clear black ink markings on rear strap for ' MECO 1914 L ' ( Mills Equipment Company 1914 Left ) . There is what appears to be green blanco to the front of the pouch which has begun to flake in places however just the original untouched finish to rear as was in 1914. Top right section has damage to lower pop stud although not visible when flap closed also one of the the thin belt securement straps & lower left strap female stud . Very scarce pouch with 1914 date.
WW1 British 1908 Pattern Webbing Set ( Unblancoed & Mostly 1915 Dated |) An unblancoed , untouched & matching 1908 pattern webbing set which has been together since World War One. Component parts with visible markings have 1915 dates with the exception of the '18 dated entrenching tool cover. Set comprises the following : 1 X Waistbelt 1 X Pr Cartridge Pouches 1 X Bayonet Frog With Helve Strap 1 X Waterbottle & Carrier 1 X Entrenching Tool Carrier 1 X Pr Shoulder Straps Both cartridge pouches have 1915 date with this also being visible on the belt. Faint markings to rear of helve strapped bayonet frog . Waterbottle carrier has 'MW&S' maker with only the first part of the date '19' having ever been ink stamped on . It is clear from its correlating age wear that this is an original component to the set & not a later addition. Bottle itself is of the correct blue enamel WW1 construction with the distinct ridge to top & bottom. Felt cover has some considerable moth. This set is totally 'as found' with only the shoulder straps & rare helve holder not being present when discovered . The close matching shoulder straps have been added here for display & will come with the set. I have left this set in the condition in which it was found therefore no attempt to clean any of the components has been made .
WW1 British 1910 Matching Numbers & Volley Sights No.1 Mk III Lee Enfield Rifle A pre WW1 example of the iconic No.1 MK III British Short Magazine Lee Enfield Rifle with volley sights , peep sight & original brass numbered butt disc . Dated 1910 this piece has remained in its World War One format with rarely found matching numbers to bolt , receiver & nosecap and same matching serial number to be seen on the muzzle bayonet roundel. Correct pre 1916 round cocking piece still present to bolt. Wrist strap is clearly marked E.R ( Edwardius Rex ) denoting King Edward reign with Enfield maker & date 1910. Some expected light age is apparent in places confirming its original finish & 103 year old age . Profusely British inspection stamped it is a used British rifle that no doubt saw action during the first world war.
WW1 British 1914 Pattern Large Pack A WW1 1914 pattern large pack in excellent condition with all of its correct straps & fittings present & in very good order. This piece is an American made example with double cap rivets & small brass clips to the reverse of each buckle tab. There is also a strip of longitudinal webbing to the rear behind the brace tabs this not being present on British made examples. A broad arrow numbered inspection mark & a soldiers handwritten name can be seen on the underside of the flap. The decision to produce the new leather set to supplement the 1908 pattern webbing was made in early 1914 with the contracted requirement of one million sets being undertaken early on in 1914. Over sixty leather manufacturers were involved however due to the high demand needing to be met , it is estimated that as much as fifty percent of it was made by American firms these pieces being fundamentally the same with only minor manufacturing differences.
WW1 British 1914 Pattern Large Pack & 1914 Pattern Leather Straps Rare large pack being the second model for the 1914 pattern leather equipment with brass buckles to top & bottom rear & a highly desirable pair of 1914 leather shoulder straps attached. Pack has the typical eyeleted tabs on the back ( rivetted ) with \'14 pattern buckles mounted to the side of each for the helmet straps. Pack is marked on the inside of the flap with Mills Equipment Company stamp ( ME CO ) & desirable date of 1915. Both of the 1914 pattern leather straps have markings being very faint & unreadable on one of them . The left strap has the maker name \' JW Mackintosh & Co \' with the date 1915 & a broad arrow & number marking further down the strap. Large pack has been locally used after WW1 as is evidenced by the stitched repairs & fraying to some areas. Straps are generally good with minor cracks in places as would be expected. Faint traces of soldiers details to inside of flap. Nicely dated piece with the very rare 1914 pattern straps attached.
WW1 British 1914 Pattern Pack , Officer Named To London Regiment Very rare 1914 pattern second issue pack with a combination of leather & web fittings all in good intact condition. This unmarked and undated second issue example meets the 1914 pattern specification but differs very slightly having some internal edges which are selvedged in brown cloth. The construction closely resembles that of the Sam Browne equipment leading me to suspect that it was made by a firm that usually dealt in officer\'s private purchase gear. All fittings are very much intact having only very light disturbance to the stitching to one of the upper rear tabs & one of the lower rear also. Interestingly the front flap has an officers name \'Capt Maple A Coy, 6th London Regiment written onto it making the possibilities of researching the war service of this piece quite unique. Without doubt a rare find & in much need of thorough research.
WW1 British 1916 Map of German Positions : 2nd Battalion ,13th Regiment VII Corps, West of Aubers ( Copy Of Sketch Found On German Officer Captured On 25/9/15 ) This is a British March 1916 produced map which , according to the title , is taken from a sketch map found on a German officer captured on 25/9/1915. Shows positions of the 2nd Battalion , 13th Regiment VII Corps West of Aubers. Detailed are the trenches & related positions of the 13th Regiment such as minenwerfer & machine gun emplacements as well as Orderlies dugout, 'Schmidts Post' , Officers dugout , 13th Regt Post , Support Trenches , front line trenches , Battalion boundaries with the 17th regt to its Eastern edge & many more relating to the whole trench position of this particular regiment. A fascinating map & no doubt of vital importance to any troops who were to consider assaulting it. Just one small tear to corner at bottom left edge.
WW1 British 1916 Mills Cavalry Webbing Equipment Set A very rare set of the 1916 Mills Cavalry Web Equipment an almost experimental set of equipment designed for use by Britains cavalry but , due to the commitments of the Great War , never officially issued until it became the Web Equipment cavalry Pattern in 1940. Trials for a Webbing equipment set for the cavalry were taking place as early as 1913 with , at their succesful conclusion , recommendation for adoption given by General Sir John French . Due to the onset of war in 1914 this never happened however Mills (MECo) continued with a programme of development from 1911 right up until 1925. The 1916 design was manufactured by U.S. Mills Woven Cartridge Belt Company of Worcester, Massachusetts, (M.W.C.B. Co.) & is believed to have been done so to satisfy a European contract. Some belief exists that this was Belgian or Portugal with it being known that Britain did supply her oldest ally , Portugal , with webbing equipment or components of , in the first world war. In support of this theory , it is of note that when recently discovered in non collector hands this webbing set still had on it a black leather frog for the Portuguese 1904 pattern Mauser. All the components of the set are Mills marked with the date 1916 being clear . A totally homogenous straight out of the loft & the only one I have seen outside of the Brussels Army Museum. ( More information can be found on the excellent equipment website 'Karkee Web' ) .
WW1 British 1916 Pattern Soft Service Dress Cap I am fortunate to be able to offer this extremely rare & original 1916 pattern soft service dress cap this being the late war pattern in gabardine material. Often erroneously called the 'Trench Cap' these were introduced to replace the impractical stiff SD cap & due to being unstiffened could be placed into the haversack or rolled up & carried in the pocket by the soldier. This is an excellent surviving example having recently been purchased privately from source. It is totally as it came , attic stored , so i havent cleaned or brushed it leaving this up to the next owners individual preference. It is in overall excellent condition with only a very minor area of surface moth tracking to one small area on the caps underside. The American cloth lining is very good indeed being surprisingly supple & without cracks. Chinstrap is intact having no damage or brittle areas , brass GS buttons are present to sides. Underside of cap body has two large ventilation holes to each side , i have taken photographs of these & the stitching so that its originality can be decisively determined from the images provided.
WW1 British 1917 Dated '02 Pattern Field Service Tunic , Grenadier Guards A scarce WW1 1902 pattern four pocket field service tunic still with its paper manufacturers label bearing the date 1917. Becoming very hard to come by now this tunic has had its GS buttons period replaced by those worn by the Grenadier Guards & Honourable Artillery Company. In classic khaki serge all pockets are typically bellows pleated with white cotton drill lining to interior. Inside of tunic has field dressing pocket to lower right with single horizontal strips of cotton lining to interior pocket reinforcement which is correct for a tunic of this period. Two brass belt hooks are stitched in to each side of waist. Its original paper manufacturers label is still present to inside right breast giving sizes , maker & the date ' Hollington Bros. 1917 ' . 'W /I D' broad arrow ink marking surmounts the depot stamp letter 'S'. Two blue embroidered overseas service chevrons to lower right sleeve . All four pocket buttons are present with three of its buttons remaining to front. These are all leather laced to rear by the wearer to allow for easy replacement. One button remains to shoulder strap. Condition is very good with some minor moth pricks ( & two nips to front pockets ) . Other than this there are a few dirt marks in places this having been a service used jacket . Very hard to find an example still bearing its 1917 dated label these in most cases having worn off with wear.
WW1 British 25th (County Of London) Cylists Battalion , London Regiment Ephemera Group Large group of ephemera to a WW1 British soldier George DUDLEY of the 25th (County of London ) Cyclists Battalion , London Regiment who saw active service in the First World War. In this group is to be found , amongst other things, his certified Copy of Attestation showing enlistment into the 25th London Regiment following an initial short period from June 1913 to October 1914 in the 19th Battalion. It is also shown as his initial wish on the form to join the Army Cyclist Corps. His Certificate of Employment is also here giving his regimental number & showing his rank initially as 'Drummer'. On the Regimental Employment particulars he is shown as being a Stretcher Bearer in March to August 1917 for which he is commended by the Officer Commanding of B Coy, 25 Bn London Regiment. There are many regimental related letters & post WW1 correspondence regarding apparent difficult personal circumstances , & many photographs of him in uniform in WW1 & in civilian clothes after the war right up until old age. Other photographs of soldiers appear to be his father ( who appears again in his wedding photo ) & brother . Discharge certificates again list details of his service including his medal entitlement to the British War medal, Victory Medal & India General Service. I enclose a copy of his medal index card from the national Archives confirming these awards. No doubt much more research can be done on this man & his military service.
WW1 British Battle Of The Somme KIA Framed Memorial Scoll , 13th Rifle Brigade Period framed memorial scroll to Rifleman James John Leach of the Rifle Brigade killed during the Battle of the Somme in July 1916. Some preliminary research reveals him belonging to the 13th Battalion , killed on the 16th July following the capture of Contalmaison as the Somme offensive pushed on. In its black wood contemporary frame the original accompanying standard letter from Buckingham Palace is affixed to the rear . The following combat report describes the action in which Rifleman James Leach lost his life : 'At 4.30pm the attack on Contalmaison by 23rd Division was made and this time it was successful. At this stage, 13th Rifle Brigade of 111 Brigade were ordered to renew the offensive and at 8.45 pm they set off, just before orders arrived cancelling their attack. As they moved forward they were raked by machine gun fire from Ovillers but despite this they managed to penetrate three lines of enemy trenches and take two hundred prisoners. Then the orders cancelling the attack finally reached them and they pulled back to their starting positions. 13th Rifle Brigade sustained over three hundred casualties in this needless operation, one of whom was James Leach.
WW1 British Binoculars, Named & Paris Made 1917 WW1 French made binoculars made under contract for the British War Department & maker marked on the top of the lenses with ' L'Petit Fab Paris' . Each neck bears British markings of the War Department broad arrow & the designation 'MkV.SPL 68222'. Of quality construction the binoculars have brown leather coverings to each grip & extendable rain/mist shields on each end. One of the bottom lenses is slightly crazed with age. Brown leather case is complete with its carrying strap & cradle although the often impractical handle has been removed from the top of the lid. There are two wide belt loops on its rear & construction is designed to withstand service use being mainly rivetted . The name of 'W.SWART & 1917' has been impressed into the top of the lid & is more than likely the maker. On the back of the case running alongside the belt loops is a name which appears to be 'CPL H BODDY , D COMPANY. There is some writing on the front of the case also. Fastening buckle & strap arrangement is good with overall the leather remaining in excellent condition. Nice WW1 set with the researchable name of an NCO.
WW1 British Boxed \' Lifeguard Periscope \' Complete With Original Pack Of Rare Spare Mirrors & Instruction Card Rare piece of WW1 officers trench equipment being the 1915 Patent 'Lifeguard' Periscope by ' F.Duerr ' of Manchester. Complete in original card box it has original instruction card & a packet of spare lenses contained within its paper packet. The Duerr Lifeguard Periscope is well known to have been commercially produced for purchase by British officers & was a popular piece of equipment for trench use. First appearing in 1915 this is an early manufacture & difficult to find still with its accessories. All mirrors are in very good order with no damage & the hinged concertina action of the device itself works perfectly. There si damage to cardboard box where seams have gone with age. ( See picture ) . A very rare piece.
WW1 British Brodie Helmet , 52nd ( Lowland ) Division Markings A scarce British Brodie helmet of the early first pattern with raw edge shell & bearing markings to the 4th Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 52nd ( Lowland ) Division. This helmet is a surviving example of the system of coloured bars used by the Scottish 52nd ( Lowland ) Division which denoted by colour the brigade & number of the battalion. These four red bars are brush applied horizontally to each side of the helmet over its rough textured sand mixed khaki paint with patches of the earlier smooth green paint showing through. Helmet is an early production with this first green paint base colour being apparent in places. A later reissue has then seen the early non hard wearing liner replaced & the rough paint applied over the top before the unit markings were then applied. Inside of helmet is in generally good order with brown leather chinstrap good & supple. Red ink stamp Brodie markings remain to underside of liner with a 6 3/4 size marking to cradle strap. Felt padding to inner crown has moth. Overall a total sleeper of a Brodie helmet that has recently surfaced & is fresh onto the collectors market.
WW1 British Brodie Helmet With Hessian Camouflage Cover An exceptionally rare British WW1 Brodie pattern helmet with its original hessian sacking trench cover still in place. We have recently been fortunate enough to acquire some rarely seen WW1 pieces from a quite exceptionally advanced collection this item being one of those that was acquired by the vendor many years ago. The two piece hessian cover has a distinctive join with an alternating seam for more strength . Applied to the entirety of the helmet & under its rim the edges have then been rolled & then stitched all the way round to tighten it onto the helmet. When one examines the age & wear to the cover with natural damage in places it is quite evident that this has been in place for many years . The original paint finish in brown khaki can be seen to the interior with its rough cork mixed finish to the rim visible in damaged areas of the cover. Leather chinstrap has survived in good order. A superb time capsule piece in every sense of the expression & a rare opportunity to own such an example.
WW1 British Coldstream Guards Military Medal Grouping A WW1 Military Medal grouping to ' 21167 Pte H.Barraclough ' of the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards. Group consists of Military Medal , War & Victory Medal with Coldstream Guards cap badge & 'CG' brass titles. I have carried out only partial research into this soldier however the award of his MM appeared in the London Gazette on 27th June 1918, he was from BrigHouse, Yorkshire. Having served in the 1st battalion Coldstream Guards he transferred to the Army Service Corps on 28/08/1918. The MM was most likely for an action during the April German Spring Offensive. Wounds received may well have rendered unfit for frontline service hence his transfer to the ASC. Medal index card states that he is entitled to the BWM and VM only along with his MM so this group is complete. Comes mounted as seen .
WW1 British Dorset Regiment 'Somme' KIA Medal Group , Death Plaque Etc A fascinating KIA medal, death plaque & paperwork group to a soldier of the Dorset regiment killed in the closing stages of the Somme offensive near Beaumont Hamel on 19th November 1916. Within the group are the following contents : Medal trio comprising 1914-15 Star , War & Victory medal. Death Plaque. Memorial scroll. Death Notification from Infantry Record Office dated 8th Dec 1916. Handwritten letter to wife from Platoon Commander Lieutenant Wood dated 27th November 1916 regarding the death of her husband . Handwritten letter to Reverend Bloomfield ( Presumably of the Parish on behalf of Mrs Parsons ) from Lieutenant Wood giving further information on the death of her husband. A photocopy of a studio portrait of Pte Parsons in uniform with wife & son. Lieutenant Wood gives light to the circumstances of his death writing ' The battalion was holding a captured position in the second line of German trenches under very heavy artillery & rifle fire when Parsons was hit & killed instantly in the trench by a sniper. The men who were with him at the time say that his death must have been quite painless. ' Eventually buried at Thiepval Memorial cemetery it is of note that Parsons was wounded three times previously . At the time of his death he was 27 years old.
WW1 British Double Flashed Insignia Brodie Helmet An interesting WW1 British Brodie helmet with double flashed insignia of a yellow V on green square . With some suggestion that this was for a cavalry unit , it is interesting to note that an outer coating of black paint has been applied to the helmet indicating some post WW1 use most likely of civil defence purposes in the early WW2 period. With some early war experimentation of the steel helmet concept this pattern of helmet with steel rim is officially titled the 'Helmet Steel Mark 1 ' & was in service by June 1916. Both chinstrap & liner are of the Mk1 pattern with chinstrap having survived remarkably well. The rubber ring was incorporated into helmets after May 1917 following the suggestion that more protection from blows was necessary. An interesting helmet with usual age to crown pad.
WW1 British Flashed Insignia Raw Edge Brodie Helmet A regimentally flashed WW1 British Brodie helmet believed to be of the Lincolnshire regiment with red cross on square to front of helmet. This helmet has an early to midwar manufactured shell of the 'War Office Pattern' recognisable immediately by the lack of edging around its rim. With the introduction of the new Mark 1 shell , liner & chinstrap system around May 1916 existing stocks of the earlier pattern were modified with the new liner & chinstrap now fitted as here. Upon close examination traces of the early smooth green paint finish can be seen underneath its existing rough textured paint finish, this was done to eliminate the shiny reflective surface of the early green paint finish. Surviving in very good condition with intact leather chinstrap & ' BRODIES STEEL HELMET' marking in red ink to underside of liner.
WW1 British Greatcoat 1914/15 ( American Made Simplified Pattern ) A rare 1915 dated example of the 'Greatcoat, Drab Mixture, Dismounted ,Simplified' introduced as of late 1914 early 1915 . This pattern of greatcoat simplified wartime production with the intricate details of the earlier versions such as turn up cuffs & internal pocket fastenings now omitted. These American made versions were of a higher quality than their British counterparts but rarely turn up in good condition. This particular piece is in quite phenominal condition with correct full khaki cotton drill lining to sleeves & pockets. A darker brown drill lines the undersides of the pocket flap. All brass GS buttons are present to front fly & rear skirt pleat with a good proportion of the original paper label bearing the American makers company name ' Burton Pierce Company' with date February 1915. There are two sections of seperate material used in the construction of this greatcoat along the bottom edge one still bearing a partial paper label from the same maker. There are also stampings from a New York costume company on each interior pocket lining. All brass GS buttons are present these being with no markings to reverse typical of American made clothing. Having survived in astoundingly good condition these are a couple of small moth holes only noticeable upon close inspection. Stitching away on one side of coat hanger loop to rear if collar .
WW1 British Gunsighting Telescope 1916 ( W.Ottway maker) Brass washed 1916 dated Gunsighting Telescope complete in its original wooden transit box. Item has knurled rotation components for changing power at the eyepiece end & is also clearly marked with manufacturers details. This clearly reads ' "GUNSIGHTING" PATENT V.P. 5.t.o15 W. OTTWAY & Co LTD EALING 1916 ' . Wooden transit box has general wear & tear with a seperate compartment at one end. Contained within this is the optical eye that screws on to the main body of the scope although the screws for this are missing. Fittings on the box are of brass as would be expected for this period & there are the stencilled initials 'REP' on one end. W.Ottway are a famous optical manufacturer of the early period & made many different telescopes for the military & commercially over the years. Lenses inside are cloudy although visually this is an excellent display piece of the mid First World War period. Please call to discuss delivery options/ pickup as this is a heavy item.
WW1 British Hooked Quillon 1908 Dated ( 5th Wiltshires ) A 1908 dated hooked quillon bayonet with matching numbered Mk1 scabbard . Regimental markings to pommel were formally that of the '2.R.I.R' ( 2nd Batt , Royal Irish Rifles ) however these have been crossed out & then ' 5 WTS ' (5th Batt, Wiltshire Regiment ) added. Both weapon numbers on pommel match that on the scabbard throat. Ricasso markings are that of Enfield with an initial issue date of December 1908 . The subsequent issue date of ' 10 13' is also seen apparently denoting the transfer of regiment most likely according to the mans service. Scabbard date is of the scarcer internal chape Mk1 with matching date & maker 'EFD '08 ' ( Enfield 1908 ) . An interesting bayonet that has had some rigorous cleaning of metal surfaces due to previous bad storage. Some pitting still to be seen in areas of the blade. Leatherwork is excellent.
WW1 British Hooked Quillon Bayonet & 1908 Pattern Frog 1913 A good 1913 dated 1907 pattern hooked quillon bayonet with brown leather scabbard & 1908 pattern webbing frog. Bayonet is an Enfield production with the expected '1907' pattern date to ricasso . Issue date is of ' 11 13 ' . Reverse is inspection marked & broad arrow complimented. Brown leather scabbard is of the mkII with external chape & totally correct for this bayonets 1913 production date. Marked on leather 'HGR 15' for Hepburn, Gale & Ross 1915 it also is inspection stamped & broad arrow marked. Webbing frog is a scarce unconverted wartime example still with its helve strap to rear. These were ordered removed in 1919 due to the obsolescence of the helve carrier. A close inspection of the faint ink markings discover them to read 'MECO 1915 '. Overall scarce example of a very early WW1 British bayonet.
WW1 British K.I.A 15th Hussars Officer French \'Acier Trempe\' Helmet An early private purchase French acier trempe ( Tempered steel ) helmet owned by 15th Kings Hussars officer Second Lieutenant L.N.Kindersley who was Killed In Action at Bourdon Wood on the 25th November 1917. Prior to the official issue of the British steel helmet these appeared privately just before the standard M15 Adrian was introduced & were bought in limited numbers by officers. Those provided to the British were supplied without badges as here . They proved to be an unsafe investment as the tempered steel from which they were made was prone to shatter when hit by a projectile . This & their subsequent lack of popularity make surviving examples very difficult to find today. The officers unit initials of ' XV K.H.' have been applied to the front with faint remnants of his name & '15 KH' visible to the underside of the front peak. The correct leather liner is present this having received a subtle anti degenerative oiling at some point. Coming with quite alot of research to this officer who was commissioned into the 15th Hussars on the 12th May 1915.
WW1 British Kidney Shaped Mess Tin & Cover Super condition 1903 pattern Mess Tin still in its original khaki canvas cover with two leather keepers on the rear to attach to the waistbelt & a brass D ring originally intended to attach to the greatcoat carrier. The 1903 Pattern equipment was used in second line service in the First World War & saw active service in Gallipoli in 1915 so this is certainly a good WW1 piece. The classic kidney shaped messtin remained the same throughout & only the canvas cover altered slightly as the war progressed. Messtin has a broad arrow with the number 8 stamped into the metal to its rear & the canvas carrier has some numbers including what is probably the date of \'03\' stamped into the leather of one of the keepers. All stitching is good with only the fastening button missing from the front. The WW1 British messtin is now a scarce piece of equipment & to find one still with its cover is exceptionally difficult these days.
WW1 British Kings Royal Rifle Corps Officer Tunic 1918 WW1 Service Dress tunic to a Lieutenant of the KRRC with officer named & 1918 dated Aldershot tailor label. This tunic presents well the regiment specific tunic cut of the KRRC with non mitred cuffs & shoulder rank with red backing to pips. This appearance is applicable for the entire war period as the KRRC never used cuff rank or collar insignia . All of the buttons are totally correct with the front fly buttons being of the round ball design representing musket balls for this rifle regiment. Evidence of overseas stripes having been removed to right sleeve. The tailors label is for ' FLIGHT LTD of Winchester, Aldershot with officers name ' E.B.Turner ' & the date ' 14.8.18' . With much research that can be done he is already listed as a 2nd Lieutenant on 26 September 1917 . A well used working field tunic there are equipment hooks to the rear for the Sam Browne belt equipment with cloth covering to the reverse interior lining to add comfort. There is a stitch repair to the front left breast pocket & a small area of loose stitching to the right armpit . There are a few very small matchstick head sized holes to the cloth of the tunic , not detracting from what is a good field officers jacket from a very popular British rifle regiment.
WW1 British Kings Royal Rifles Corps Officer Service Dress Jacket A First world war British Kings Royal Rifle Corps officer shoulder rank service tunic of the 1912 pattern with large 'bag' type pockets to front & multi cloth construction to front waist area & back pleat. This officer shows the rank of Lieutenant Colonel who has WW1 medal ribbons of War medal, Victory medal & Indian General Service. It is of note that in WW1 the KRRC had twenty two battalions & saw much service on the Western Front, Macedonia & Italy. After 1918 they were returned to garrison duties in India, Palestine & Ireland so the India General Service medal points towards a post WW1 posting to India in the case of this officer. Kings Royal Rifle Corps buttons have been added to this tunic at some point with rank badges scarlet backed for infantry & green cloth rectangular patches to each shoulder. An interesting piece with field wear evident , some dirt marks in places.
WW1 British Lincolnshire Regiment POW Indecent Assault Conviction Paperwork Interesting small grouping to a Horace Lacenby of the Lincolnshire Regiment convicted of Indecent Assault whilst a Prisoner of War in German captivity . A later English handwritten translation has been affixed to the rear of the frame . The German typed sheet is dated 21st December 1917 & issued by the 7th Army Corps , Deputy Commanding General. The content of the order states that following the investigation into the case of Indecent Assault by Horace Lacenby the verdict of the Upper Court Martial by the Deputy Commanding General of the 7th Army Corps on 7th December 1917 is upheld. The document goes on to confirm that the verdict is legally correct & by the verdict of the Inspectorate of Prisoners Of War camps under the jurisdiction of 7th Army Corps on 17th October 1917 the verdict is to be carried out. This last wording is slightly confusing as it most likely refers to the sentencing being carried out the nature of which is currently unresearched. Contained with a non period frame along with a studio portrait of the man as well as cap badge, shoulder title & button. Certainly an interesting research project!
WW1 British Machine Gun Corps Named Binoculars & Case An interesting pair of British military X8 binoculars made by the Paris firm 'B.Leger' during the WW1 period. The owner of these binoculars was an ' HEG Cunningham' part of the 'M.E.F' Meditteranean Expeditionary Force serving with the 6th Battalion Machine Gun Corps as has been handwritten onto the rear of the case. Binoculars have the War Department broad arrow to bottom & also to their brown leather case. The inventory number 'S.I. 934011' has been hand painted to right shoulder . Dunsterforce was formed in 1918 under the command of Major General Lionel Charles Dunsterville in the Middle East. Dunsterville was a school friend of Kipling and 'Stalky' was based on him. His force was organised in Baghdad consisting of only a small number of British Officers and NCO's. on reaching the Caspian sea he recruited Cossacks who were trained by his British troops. As the Turks threatened to capture the Baku oil fields he was sent more British troops. The story is very interesting involving any manner of people and adventures including a Gallipoli style retreat across the Caspian sea. A real boys own adventure story at the end of WW1 whose effects are still being felt today. Optics are usable but with some marking to internal lenses.
WW1 British Machine Gun Corps Trench Cap A fine example of the late WW1 pattern of British soldiers field trench cap badged to the Machine Gun Corps & with 1918 date to interior. In quite excellent condition this pattern of cap was widely seen in the late war period & due to its lightweight construction could be easily stowed away in the soldiers kit when not being worn. The clear fold down the length of this caps top is clear evidence of this & demonstrated as such in the images. Its black interior lining is still clearly marked with the maker name of ' MYERS & Co' surmounting the date 1918. Its number coded broad arrow WD marking is also pleasingly visible. It is of note that the MGC cap badge is securely affixed to the front of the cap with a card backing that does show signs of wear however I am unable to determine definitively when this was done. A scarce cap & hard to find with a good clear date.
WW1 British Mark 1 Cruise Visor Helmet One of a number of items recently surfaced from a long standing European collection this is an excellent example of the rare WW1 Mark 1 Cruise visor helmet. This helmet was only made in limited numbers & so surviving examples are rare. This piece retains a good proportion of its original rough textured khaki paint to exterior with a heavy khaki paint to the rims underside. Both retaining hooks are still present to the rims exterior with totally undisturbed liner bolt that has never been interfered with. Interior of helmet bears intact chainmail visor with wire still firmly in place affixed to the chinstrap bales as is correct for this model. Leather chinstrap has some minor surface cracking but is still supple & in undamaged order. Helmet net is still present to the liners underside with much of its padding remaining. Rare piece & in particularly good condition.
WW1 British Medical 02 Tunic 1918 -Territorial Northumbrian RAMC A wonderful WW1 \'02 tunic with all original badges to a Warrant Officer of the Territorial Northumbrian Royal Army Medical Corps. This tunic recently surfaced from private sources with everything on it original as pictured here . Tunic has interior partial lining with reinforcing strips indicating wartime production. Glazed cotton has been typically used for the reinforcement pieces & pocket bags with an ink marked W /I D stamp under \'36\' & over an \'L\' on one side. Interestingly there are the remains of its original paper clothing label to interior right breast , close examination ascertains a date of 1918. Brass belt hooks still fitted to each side. All of its front fly General Service buttons are present with brass T RAMC Northumbrian shoulder titles mounted to each shoulder strap. There is a Warrant Officer Class 1 rank badge & medic patch to each sleeve with three blue overseas chevrons to lower right. Condition is excellent with a couple of small moth nips to the collar not detracting. Totally untouched & fresh to the market very difficult to find such an untouched piece fresh from private hands.
WW1 British Mk 1 1916 Brodie Helmet A superb untouched example of the Mk 1 1916 Brodie steel helmet with seperate folded rim & two part liner. Exterior of shell has its original matt khaki finish achieved by mixing sand , sawdust or crushed cork into the paint. This continues through to the inside of the shell where can be seen the markings of the steel supplier 'HS' for the firm Hadfield Ltd who were in production from Jan 1916 to 1919. The interior liner still has its drawstrung net with instruction label for headsize adjustment , also the red ink War Office Pattern stamp to interior of headband. This is the 1916 pattern as no rubber ring is present in the crown pad. There is some dryness to the leather with chinstrap in two due to this . Buckle intact. Overall a striking untouched helmet certainly indicative of the WW1 Tommy.
WW1 British Mounted Issue Trench Boots 1917 A very scarce pair of the 1917 issue full lace up mounted issue trench boots worn very much by Royal Field Artillery personnel & other troops who were lucky enough to acquire them. These boots were well received by the troops answering the need for stout footwear in the harsh muddy conditions of the trenches. Several patterns existed these being the full length 14 eyelet pairs of lace up with a strap & buckle tightener to the top of each boot. Both boots have an impressed broad arrow stamped into each denoting War Department issue. In quite excellent condition the leather is still supple with no damage to the strap & buckle tightener at the top of each boot. As with most of these practical items of footwear they have a very old French resole being , no doubt , put to good use by a French civilian after the war . Any WW1 boots are hard to find this mounted pattern being no exception.
WW1 British Named Military Cross Winner Observer/Pilot RFC Maternity Tunic With Berkshire Regiment Interest A historically fascinating Royal Flying Corps tunic named to Observer/Pilot Captain E.E Burney who served with 59 Squadron on the Western Front in 1916 & won the Military Cross serving with the Berkshire regiment in February 1915 prior to joining the RFC. This wonderful plastron fronted tunic is in the wrapover 'maternity' style so called for its resemblance to clothing worn by pregnant women. There is an 'Abbot & Co, Conduit St ' tailors label to the inside breast pocket giving the date '20/1/17' & his name written as ' Lt E.Burney R.F.C. ' . There is also a number ' 6699' which , as officers did not have service numbers in WW1 , would likely be the tailors reference for this man so as his measurements & details could be kept on file for future orders. The originally sewn embroidered on blue cloth RFC Flying badge is present to left breast & his Military Cross & 1914 Star medal ribbons mounted beneath. Each shoulder has three worsted rank pips for captain & there are bronze RFC officer collars. Upon close examination of the collars it is very clearly evident that these have never been off of the tunic with correlating wear indentation to the collar cloth underneath & also some oxidisation to the underside which has bled into the cloth. These are not seen on all RFC tunics it seemingly being down to the individual preference of the officer. There is plenty of period photographic evidence showing them with & without in wartime wear. The tunic is fastened by five concealed buttons to its right side with a double press stud arrangement to the top of the right shoulder. All of these fastenings are 100% original to the tunic. With a thick champagne lined lining showing heavy wear to the inside collar area there is a double hook & eye fastening to the stand & fall collar. In quite excellent condition there are one or two surface moth nips seen only upon close examination. I have carried out research on Burney hence the information here & will forward what I have in the form of his service record upon sale. In brief, Edmund Ernest Burney was born on 2/6/1890 & went to R.M.A Sandhurst from 1911-1912. He initially joined the 1st Royal Berkshires & disembarked to France on 13/8/1914 . He won the Military Cross on 20/2/1915 & was Mentioned In Despatches 22/6/15. Promoted to Lieutenant on 1/6/16 he transferred to the RFC in mid 1916 joining 59 Squadron on 29/9/16. No.59 Squadron was formed at Narborough Airfield in Norfolk on 1 August 1916 as a squadron of the Royal Flying Corps. On 13 February 1917, the Squadron crossed the English Channel, deploying to Saint-Omer in northern France to operate in the army co-operation role . There is alot of information on his service records still left to decipher however he is distinctly shown as an Artillery Observer /Pilot hence his RFC flying badge. Awards won were the Military Cross & the 1914 Star .
WW1 British No.25 Trench Periscope & Case 1916 A classic WW1 trench periscope this being the No.25 model coming complete with its quality brown leather carrying case. Periscope has good clear optics with graticuling still visible upon focussing. The well acknowledged maker nomenclature of R&J Beck is visible to scope with the date 1916. The War Department Broad arrow mark is visible to scope & also to its original screw on wood handle. Leather case inner is lined in high quality purple velvet padding with all buckle straps in remarkably good condition. There is also a belt loop to rear as well as the housing compartment for the wood handle when not in use. The lid to the case has become detached over time with carrying straps damaged in places ( Please see images ) . Still a fine addition to any WW1 trench equipment collection.
WW1 British No.30 Trench Periscope 1917 Superb example of the No.30 Trench periscope manufactured by Adams & Co in 1917. One of the rarer trench scopes from WW1, these were used by spotters and snipers in front line areas. The large tubular metal body is painted in a green finish & is in excellent hardly used condition still with its Adams & Co 1917 paper label intact & completey discernable on front. On the label are instructions for use and the nomenclature 'Periscope No.30 Adams & Co., 1917' . Complete with the optics are the two disc covers to be placed over the large bottom view point one with a hole in to prevent any broken glass from inside the periscope damaging the users eyes. Faint black WD broad arrow stamp to front. Khaki carrying bag is used but good with carrying strap in good order. Buckle & strap are not present to flap however the black ink stamped War Department broad arrow denotes an issue item on a unit rather than individual level. There is a dent to front area with two small paint chips however this does not detract from what is a rare trench optic seldom seen outside of regimental museums & long established collections.
WW1 British Officer MC Winner Uniform Grouping A rare & historic uniform grouping to a British First World War Military Cross winner of the 7th Battalion , The Wiltshire regiment. Major H.Wayland saw much action with the battalion which left for France on 22nd September 1915. Being heavily engaged against enemy forces after being deployed in Salonika Captain H. Wayland ( A Coy ) is listed as wounded on Wednesday 25th April 1917 in an attack on enemy positions where 2 officers & 7 Other Ranks were killed. On 6th July 1917 Major Wayland was invalided back to England due to his injuries where on 1st January 1918 he was awarded the MIlitary Cross. On 23rd January 1918 he is also listed as having been Mentioned in Despatches. In this group is his field worn high quality officers four pocket tunic field modified from a cuff rank to a shoulder rank often done to minimise the snipers targeting officers in the field the cuff ranks being easier to spot. There is a slight change in shade to the cuff mitres that may also indicate the change to shoulder rank upon his promotion to Major thereby negating the need to change the Captains cuff rank to that of a Major. There is no evidence of any other insignia other than the early correct cuff rank style Crown to the eppaulette. All matching Wiltshires buttons & collars are present with blue 26th Division battle insignia tabs to each shoulder. Also present are a wound stripe & overseas stripes to each sleeve respectively most certainly pertinent to this officers active service. Medal ribbons of Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, War Medal & Victory Medal with Oakleaves present on left breast. Named to Capt. Wayland & dated 1916 on inside tailors nametag Accompanying the tunic is a nicely worn ' Gor Blimey ' trench cap with quilted liner to crown & neck curtain to rear. Matching Sam Browne completes the set which will come with some initial research on the officer & his Battalion. Dug in around the towns of Albert & Meaulte the Division ( 7th Wilts were part of the 79th Brigade of the 26th Division ) became experienced in Trench Warfare before being redeployed to Salonika , arriving on the 21st November 1915. Following a period of digging in & preparation the Wiltshires entered the frontline on 30th July 1916 relieving French troops. With the pushing forward of the frontline they found themselves in positions overlooking Lake Doiran & very much entrenched on the Doiran frontline. Characterized by trench warfare similar to that of the Western Front they were launched into heavy action during the battles for Doiran seeing much action against the Bulgarians , Turks & Austrians where the Battalions losses were heavy. Moved back to a training camp on the 3rd July 1917 this was the first time they had moved out of the shell area since coming up the line at the end of July 1916. Going back into a quieter sector in August they were eventually moved back to France in June 1918 before joining the attack on the Hindenburg Line on 3rd October.
WW1 British Officer Named Trench Map With Trenches & Positions Drawn On Map British Captain Named 1916 dated Trench Map in 1/20000 scale of the North Flanders area with hand drawn German trench positions in red pencil as well as other handwritten notes such as a wooded area being marked 'TANKS' & also many blue pencil marked areas of interest.. One area is marked '51st DAC' being the 51st Divisional Ammunition Column with other blue pencil marked places of interest indicated at Joffre Farm, Iron Cross, Rudolphe Farm, St.Julien, Irish Farm, La Brique & 'Dirty Bucket Corner' at one crossroads. . The map covers some very well known areas in the North Flanders area such as Ypres, Boesinghe , Vlamertinghe , Poperinghe & Peselhoek . Captain Strafford Byng-Maddick served with the Royal Army Service Corps & ended the war as a major.
WW1 British Officer Paperwork Group Ephemera group to a First World War Cavalry officer comprised of photographs, military manuals etc. Several of the books are named to a man named Alan Leonard with all photographs apparently being of the one officer. A large portrait picture of the officer as a second lieutenant weraing uniform & Sam Browne is signed by a Cedric Briggs & dated 1918. An Army Field Service Note Book dated 1917 interestingly contains many handwritten notes on the use of Cavalry in 'modern' warfare as well as notes on the use of the Mills Bomb, Defensive Positions & the feeding of horses. A typed memo dated 1917 from the First Army Corps gives new orders on the use of bombs (handheld) due to accidents happening during Bombing practices. There is also a Training pamphlet entitled ' Physical Training & Bayonet Fighting Lessons ' as well as a manual dated 1915 entitled ' Notes on Map Reading '. A postcard book of the Versailles & Trianons area gives some good prewar shots of the area. Certainly worthy of some research this an interesting group of items to the one WW1 officer.