WW2 British Tank Crew Helmet ( Soldiers Army Serial Number Written Inside )

A scarce early tank crew helmet made from a cloth covered 'pulp ' construction similar to the early Despatch Riders helmet.
These were issued prior to the introduction of the steel helmet for armoured crews there being two versions of this type one superceding the other. A frontal pad protects the forehead area whilst the inside has a leather drawstring lining .
These helmets came in a shiny black finish however an order of 14th June 1941 ordered their overpaint in matt khaki green for reaons of camouflage. There is a WD inspectors stamp to the underside of the sweatband & also the wartime army number of the wearer ' 2585927' .
An early piece , soon replaced by the RAC pattern steel helmet although still used throughout in some cases.

Code: 9084