This U.S. M1 helmet represents a classic example of Cold War-era military issue gear, with components spanning from the Korean War through the late 1970s. It features a rear seam steel shell with swivel bales, a 1972 DSA-marked ground troop liner, and a 1979-dated ERDL camouflage helmet cover.
Adding to its uniqueness is a piece of taped-on identification reading: “A1C GAVENS – REFER SPEC”, marking this helmet as having been issued to a U.S. Air Force Airman First Class. The helmet has likely seen use in training or base security contexts during the late Vietnam to early 1980s period.
USGI Cold War Era M1 Helmet w/ Liner & ERDL Cover (USAF Marked)
Specifications
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Shell Type: U.S. M1 steel helmet
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Seam Position: Rear seam (post-1944 design)
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Chinstrap Bales: Swivel bales
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Chinstraps: OD green cotton HBT straps with blackened hardware
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Liner:
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Vietnam-era Ground Troop’s Helmet Liner, Type I
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DSA Contract: 100-73-C-0582 (dated October 27, 1972)
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Helmet Cover:
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ERDL Camouflage (Highland pattern)
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Contract Number: DLA100-79-F-UQ340 (dated 1979)
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Manufacturer: MPLS Society for the Blind, Inc.
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Markings: Hand-labeled tape with “A1C GAVENS – REFER SPEC”
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Condition: Solid vintage shape with wear consistent with age; no major damage
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