Original WW2 RAF D Type Flying Helmet

An original WW2 RAF D-type Tropical flying helmet in good condition.

This pattern of flying helmet was introduced in the first half of the Second World War for use in the tropics. These helmets saw use in the Far East and Middle East with the RAF and Coastal Command. They all saw more limited use with the USAAF.

The helmet is made from a cotton drill material and is lined with an off-white satin. The pattern closely follows the second pattern C-type helmet with rubber earcups, internal wiring and elasticated chin strap. A neck flap is also present to keep the sun off the wearer's neck and is specific to the D type pattern. There are no markings in the helmet but it is a small size which would be equivalent to a size 1 or a size 2. 

The helmet is in good condition overall and displays well with some soiling from sweat etc. The rubber ear cups are good, save for one small flaw which is illustrated in picture 6. All the straps are complete and work as is the chin strap although it has lost its elasticity. The lining is worn as is common with these tropical helmets but not as much as is often encountered. There is particular wear around the metal parts which have pulled away from the lining but this isn't noticeable when the helmet is displayed. 

All in all a nice example of a D Type helmet which would make a great addition to any collection.