Early-WWII U.S. McCord M1917A1 Helmet & Liner Set (1941)
This original M1917A1 helmet was produced by the McCord Radiator & Manufacturing Co. prior to the United States' involvement in the war. It is ID'd to Anton E. Sperling, serial number 17005664. View the Veteran's Information section for more details regarding Sperling's life and military service. On November 27, 1940 McCord received a contract to manufacture the M1917A1 helmet. With a heat stamp of just 5B, this is an exceptionally early example. The helmet's exterior features its original olive drab paint and cork texture. The interior retains its original leather liner and OD#3 (khaki) chinstrap. The chinstrap exhibits the early cast-brass buckle and box stitching, while the liner retains its original leather drawstring and crown pad. Twice inscribed on the liner leather are Sperling's initials and the last four digits of his serial number. If you've ever wanted an M1917A1, you would be hard-pressed to find a more desirable example.
Veteran's Information
Coos County, Oregon resident, Anton E. Sperling, serial number 17005664, was born in South Dakota in 1920. He enlisted in the Army Signal Corps on September 10, 1941 at Fort Meade, South Dakota - just a few months before the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Made available to the new owner, below, are Sperling's records from the National Archives, however there is still plenty of research to do!
