During World War 2, air warden helmets were an essential part of the equipment issued to civilian defence workers, particularly those involved in Air Raid Precautions (ARP) services. Typically made from steel, they provided a level of protection against falling debris and shrapnel during bombings and were often painted in specific colours to denote different roles. This one was painted black to signify ‘general use’. It comes with a green adjustable chin strap in good condition, and a white “W” on the back and the front. The “W” is clear, bright and hasn’t been scuffed, though there are light spots of rust mainly on top of the helmet. It also has the liner as well as the top-of-head cushion all intact and in good condition too. It’s clearly dated 1/1940 and to the left of that marked with the makers initials, “FL”.