Collectible military helmets span centuries of warfare and styles, reflecting the evolution of combat, technology, and design. I’ve listed the most popular helmets below from the modern era:
1. World War I Helmets
- Brodie Helmet (British, also used by U.S.)
Also called the “Tommy helmet” or “soup bowl.” Simple steel design, mass-produced during WWI. - Adrian Helmet (French)
Crest down the center, often painted with unit insignia. It influenced many other countries’ helmet designs (e.g., Belgium, Italy, Romania). - Stahlhelm M1916 (German)
A heavy steel helmet with side lugs for a face shield. Became the iconic shape of German helmets into WWII.
2. World War II Helmets
- M1 Helmet (USA)
Introduced in 1941 and used through the 1980s. Recognized by its pot-like shape and detachable liner. Extremely popular among collectors due to its long service life and variations. - Stahlhelm M35/M40/M42 (Germany)
Variants of the original WWI model, with subtle differences in vent holes, steel composition, and paint. Camouflage patterns and decals greatly affect value. - Mk II Helmet (UK & Commonwealth)
An improved Brodie, with better liner and chinstrap. Canadian and Australian versions are similar with slight differences. - Japanese Type 90 Helmet
Made from thin steel, often with a star or other insignia. Some had cloth covers or painted camo. - Soviet SSh-40 Helmet
Rounded steel helmet, green-painted, simple in design but robust. Used by the Red Army from WWII onward.
3. Post-War and Modern Combat Helmets
- PASGT (USA, 1980s–2000s)
“Fritz” helmet, made of Kevlar, replacing the M1. Seen in Gulf War and early Afghanistan/Iraq conflicts. - Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH)
Modern U.S. Kevlar helmet used in Iraq and Afghanistan, with Velcro and rails for gear attachments. - Composite Helmets (Global)
NATO and Eastern Bloc countries now use high-tech helmets like the Ops-Core FAST, Russian 6B47, and Israeli OR-201.
Specialty & Niche Collectibles
- Paratrooper Helmets
Modified versions with added chinstraps and padding. WWII U.S. M2 or M1C and German Fallschirmjäger helmets are prime examples. - Tanker Helmets
Padded cloth or leather helmets with built-in comms used by tank crews (e.g., U.S. M1938 Tanker Helmet). - Experimental Prototypes
Rare and valuable—such as U.S. T35 or the German M44 prototype.
Collectibility Factors
- Condition: Rust, dents, or missing liners reduce value.
- Markings: Manufacturer stamps, unit decals, and battle damage can increase value.
- Provenance: Helmets with documented history are more desirable.
- Rarity: Limited-production variants or helmets from elite units fetch higher prices.
- Restoration: Original, untouched helmets are more valuable than restored ones.