A completely untouched WW2 British MKII helmet, both shell and liner dated 1940, and produced by the early-war maker JSS (John Sankey & Sons). This example remains exactly as found – honest,  uncleaned, and showing its original paint, wear, and patina.

The helmet carries a hand-scratched surname “Surman” to the inner rim, along with additional scratched numbers on the opposite side (see photos). These markings are period done, although due to age and wear, its hard to work out the full name and serial number.

To the front of the helmet is a small cartoon-style emblem, which has the distinctive style of 1930s-1940s British humour artwork. I’ve tried researching similar emblems and artwork styles from the period, but this one has completely stumped me – unfortunately I can’t identify what it refers to. I would be very interested to know what it represents if anyone recognises it.

Shell

Maker:  JSS (John Sankey & Sons)

Date:  1940 stamped to the inside rim.

Finish:  Original wartime khaki paint.

Wear:  Paint losses, scuffs and age-consistent surface marks – nothing cleaned or altered.

Front Emblem:  Unidentified cartoon-style character within a circle.

Liner

Date:  Faintly stamped 1940, matching the shell.

Construction:  Early-war MKII – cross pad crown.

Condition:  Age toning and expected wear, but completely original to the helmet.

Chinstrap:  Wartime web strap showing age and handling wear.

Overall

A very honest, totally untouched early-war MKII with both shell and liner dated 1940, a personally scratched name, and serial number, with an intriguing cartoon emblem. This helmet displays very well, and offers genuine research potential for collectors who like to dig deeper.

Historical Note

The British MKII helmet was introduced just before the war and became the standard combat helmet for British and Commonwealth forces throughout the Second War World. Produced in vast numbers during the early war years, helmets dated 1940 were issued across the British Army, Home Guard, Civil Defence, and numerous supporting units during the period.