1938 Dated Black Steel Helmet. Army/ARP/Civil Defence.

This civil defence helmet is quite interesting as it started life as an early army helmet finished in the early brown as seen used by the BEF. Apparently lots of Army helmets from the time and brought back after Dunkirk where reissued for use by the Civil defence as steel helmets where in short supply. This one being issued to the ARP, the letters can be seen under the final coat of black to the front. The black finish was only painted only to the outside of the shell and not inside. The paint has survived with close to 100% remaining. Inside 1938 dated first pattern liner is in very nice condition as is the chinstrap. For some reason the last owner hand painted half of the inside lip black with the addition of the letters HSF, his name or a Designation? A helmet that has had a life for sure.