Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, Military & Historical Items for Discerning Collectors
RECENT SALES
(click on pictures to enlarge)
US Navy Emergency Drinking Water Kit, dated 1945.
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Very scarce accessory for the US Navy Pararaft and Survival back pack. Complete, unopened and still sealed Drinking Water Kit for distilling drinking water from sea water. Dated July 1945 and in excellent conditon, with no dings or dents, just a few minor surface scratches. It even includes a small envelope containing extension tapes for fitting in the early M-592 back pad kits. Also still attached to its rope lanyard for securing it to the pack.
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SOLD
 USN emergency water kit. |  USN emergency water kit. |
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 USN emergency water kit. |  DSCN4231USN emergency water kit. |
 USN emergency water kit. |
ARP Warden's Hudson "Police" whistle.
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The third means of communication used by ARP (Air Raid Precautions) Wardens was the ubiquitous police whistle. Since they had similar powers to the police (at least as far as telling the public to "put out that light") they were issued with a similar pea-less tube whistle. This example is chrome plated and maker marked to J. Hudson of Birmingham who were perhaps the best known manufacturers. Again a lovely example.
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SOLD
 ARP police whistle |  ARP police whistle |
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 ARP police whistle |
RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) with dinghy attachments and helioograph.
A very clean example of the RAF stole inflated (cartridge) life saving waistcoat, popularly referred to as "1941 pattern." It comprises a yellow cotton waistcoat with 3 button front, and zipped compartment for housing a stole (bladder) and kapok pads for buoyancy. No stole or pads are present. This example has a nice Air Ministry label and dates to mid-1943. It has the addition of grab handles, leg tapes, dye marker pouch (no dye) and pocket for floating torch (not included). It is fitted with both a toggle rope and screw-type connector for attaching to the dinghy pack, and also has its heliograph/signal mirror attached and fitted into the small pocket on the chest. Excellent condition and getting harder to find.
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SOLD
 RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |  RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |
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 RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |  RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |
 RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |  RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |
 RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |  RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |
 RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |  RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |
 RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |  RAF stole inflated life saving waistcoat (known as 1941 pattern) |
USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications.
Sadly the electronic communications (telephone receivers and throat microphones) have been removed from this helmet - but even stripped down, it remains one of the hardest WWII helmets to find. No doubt they were removed either because they didn't work or were no longer needed, even though the helmet itself is perfectly serviceable. Could be restored (using German donor parts - note receiver housings are identical to Luftwaffe hemets) or displayed as is to represent a later war Soviet pilot. Leather is in very good condition and yak fur lining is also excellent. A very illusive helmet.
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SOLD
 USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |  USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |
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 USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |  USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |
 USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |  USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |
 USSR WWII flying helmet with provision for communications |
Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps.
The most used life vest of the USAAF during WWII, yet quite scarce these days - the B-3 continued in use throughout the entire war. This example is in good condition, with no damage, and it remains completely flexible, although its innards are a little bit crunchy. It is ID'd only to C.W. with a serial number. This vest saw plenty of service, with numerous inspection dates from August 1942 to March 1945. At some point, a neck strap was added (per AAF HQ instructions) and the other straps were replaced (by a rigger, judging by the sewing). It was also fitted with a dye marker pouch. An interesting example - if only it could talk!​
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SOLD
 Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |  Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |
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 Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |  Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |
 Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |  Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |
 Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |  Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |
 Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |  Early AAF B-3 life vest with modified straps |
Unissued (still stitched together) USN B-3A flying gloves, early postwar.
Identical to the WWII issue, these superb seal brown B-3A flying gloves were popular with both the AAF and the USN, and continued in service for many years. This pair is unissued and unworn, still sewn together! Well marked with the silver USN on the back of each glove and inside with contract information and a MIL-SPEC number (postwar). Marked as size 9.
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 Unissued (still stitched together) USN B-3A flying gloves, early postwar. |  Unissued (still stitched together) USN B-3A flying gloves, early postwar. |
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 Unissued (still stitched together) USN B-3A flying gloves, early postwar. |  Unissued (still stitched together) USN B-3A flying gloves, early postwar. |
US Army large musette bag/haversack dated 1943.
Complete with its shoulder strap (so often missing), the musette bag was carried by every soldier (including airmen) in WWII. This example is in great condition, dated 1943 and perfect for storing equipment and personal items. Size is approximately 12" x 13" x 4.5" deep with numerous pockets.
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SOLD
 US Army large musette bag/haversack dated 1943 |  US Army large musette bag/haversack dated 1943 |
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 US Army large musette bag/haversack dated 1943 |  US Army large musette bag/haversack dated 1943 |
Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 armour piercing shell dated 1945.
Type fired by US naval guns, tanks and tank-buster aircraft, completely inert (drilled out and emptied of all contents) and makes a great display alongside uniforms and other equipment. The empty shells turn up but rarely with the projectile.
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SOLD
 Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |  Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |
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 Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |  Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |
 Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |  Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |
 Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |  Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |
 Excellent inert US 40mm M81A1 shell complete |
Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell.
Type used on German battleships and cruisers in WWI naval warfare and later against aircraft (known as "Archie" or "AckAck" because of the noise it made). Heavy and completely inert (separates into 2 easily) makes a great display alongside WWI uniforms and other kit. Great condition, well marked (see photos) and very difficult to find.
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SOLD
 Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |  Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |
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 Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |  Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |
 Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |  Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |
 Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |  Inert WWI Karlesruhe 1906 40mm anti-aircraft shell. |
Original WWII awarded Iron Cross Second Class with ribbon.
Nice example of what I believe is an original Iron Cross Second Class presented to German soldiers/sailors and airmen from 1939-45. Silvered frame with an irpn (magnetic) core and the number 66 stamped on the suspension ring indicating the maker was Freidrich Keller. Good original ribbon. A couple of spots of oxidation but overall in very good condition.
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 Original WWII awarded Iron Cross Second Class with ribbon |  Original WWII awarded Iron Cross Second Class with ribbon |
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 Original WWII awarded Iron Cross Second Class with ribbon |  Original WWII awarded Iron Cross Second Class with ribbon |
 Original WWII awarded Iron Cross Second Class with ribbon |
AAF T-30-S throat microphone.
Excellent T-30-S throat microphone by Western Electric. Shows no sig of use and no wear or damage. Elastic strap is still good and rubber still flexible. For some reason, the Western Electric "S" model seems to be harder to find than other makers.
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SOLD​​
 AAF T-30-S throat microphone |  AAF T-30-S throat microphone |
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 AAF T-30-S throat microphone |
AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box.
A remarkable find! This A-10 Revised mask (based on the A-10 Standard but made in a completely new mould) is in absolutely outstanding condition. The rubber is a soft and clean as the day it was made - obviously it has been stored well. Fortunately, it was never fitted with a malleable nosewire (which often caused dame to the rubber lugs and surrounding areas). This was optional anyway and only used if necessary to provide a secure fit over the bridge of the nose. Fitted with its corrugated hose, webbing straps and attachments for wearing on a helmet, and it comes in its original storage/transit box. Mask is dated 4-43 on the front molded panel and stamped August 8 1943 on the side of the face piece. This would be very difficult of not impossible to upgrade.
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SOLD​​
 AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |  AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |
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 AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |  AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |
 AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |  AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |
 AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |  AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |
 AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |  AAF A-10R (Revised) oxygen mask in perfect, unissued condition with original box |
AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories and instructions.
Now getting extremely difficult to source in good condition, this A-14 mask is in excellent shape, showing very light use. Clean with no damage and complete in its original storage/transit box with accessories and instructions. Mask has been modified by adding the anti-freeze baffle inside, and the original instruction sheet for installing the baffle is included in the accessory envelope with the main instruction leaflet and snaps, clip etc. Mask and box are dated 1-45 and labeled "small" but fits a display head perfectly.
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SOLD​​
 AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |  AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |
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 AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |  AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |
 AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |  AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |
 AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |  AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |
 AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |  AAF A-14 oxygen mask fitted with anti-freeze baffle, in original 1-45 dated box with all accessories |
RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. Project in need of some TLC.
This is a project just begging for someone to work on! A lovely late war Type C (this style with the extra short leather tabs at the back most likely first saw light of day around December 1944). Leather is in great shape but has been cut on both sides in order to remove the internal wiring - this could be repaired with care. Both rubber earcups are soft and pliable - the one on the right is perfect; the one on the left is squashed and somewhat misshapen, but is nonetheless completely flexible and could possibly be reshaped if a receiver were installed. A very generous size helmet (22C/879 - size 3 Large). Priced according to its current condition but could be restored nicely with care and patience.
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SOLD
 RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |  RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |
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 RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |  RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |
 RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |  RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |
 RAF Type C flying helmet, late WWII for internal wiring. |
AAF A-8 summer flying helmet.
Standard Air Corps issue at the beginning of the war, the A-8 was a lightweight flying cap to which leather earcups were added, when required, to house a headset. The A-8 had a relatively short service life, being replaced by the A-9, which offered only a very slight improvement. This example shows light use and has some worn areas but no holes or damage. Retains its fleece/shearling chin strap which buckles on both sides. Good label and a size Medium, it displays well. The A-8 is quite scarce compared to the more common A-9.
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 AAF A-8 summer flying helmet |  AAF A-8 summer flying helmet |
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 AAF A-8 summer flying helmet |  AAF A-8 summer flying helmet |
 AAF A-8 summer flying helmet |  AAF A-8 summer flying helmet |
RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete and in very good condition, with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic.
Very good RAF Type E* oxygen mask, still fitted with its original narrow gauge tube (hose) secured by a metal circlip. The soft rubber mask body is in very good condition, with no hardness, no stickiness and fully pliable. No visible cracking or crazing - just some slight misshaping from storage. The tube is completely flexible with the slightest hint of surface cracks in between the corrugations. The chamois edging shows only storage soiling. Fitted with a good Type 48 microphone. These very rarely turn up with the narrow tube still attached - most were separated and used as mic. carriers after the Type G mask was introduced in 1943.
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 RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |  RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |
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 RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |  RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |
 RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |  RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |
 RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |  RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |
 RAF Type E* oxygen mask complete with original narrow tube and Type 48 mic. |
WWI flying gauntlets of the type worn by US Air Service aviators.
Lovely pair of gauntlets of the type worn by motorists, motorcyclists and aviators in the early years of the 20th century. Two-tone leather: tan and black, fleece-lined gloves with soft leather gauntlets. The only markings are on the snap fasteners, Scovil Mfg Co. Birdcage/basket type snaps which were popular prior to 1920. These would have been a very luxurious pair of gloves. Leather is in excellent condition, with some verdigris around the snaps.
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 WWI US Air Service flying gauntlets |  WWI US Air Service flying gauntlets |
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 WWI US Air Service flying gauntlets |  WWI US Air Service flying gauntlets |
Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap.
A true officer quality crusher (the peak/visor is a single thickness of butter soft leather and rolls up tightly). Cap has been modified cleverly for wear by an enlisted airman by removing the mohair band and hand-sewing a piece of matching green gabardine in its place, then attaching the badge. It still has its attached front and rear chin strap. Crushers were not generally available to enlisted men and were a private purchase item. This is a rare, possibly unique modification and is beautfully done. Great condiiton.
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 Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap.DSCN6072 |  Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap. |
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 Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap. |  Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap. |
 Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap. |  Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap. |
 Superb AAF enlisted man's true crusher, modified from an officer's cap. |
Outstanding AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia.
Very unusual to find a wartime period officer's uniform that hasn't been stripped of all insignia! This is a beauty. Green gabardine wool tunic, custom tailored (made to measure) and named inisde the pocket (very difficult to determine the name because it's handwritten) with a date of July 1943. Still has a lovely Balfour (LGB) pinback sterling pilot wing attached, medal ribbons, winged props and US collar tabs plus sterling captain's bars - all silver is nicely aged with patina. Lovely condition showing light wear but no mothing or damage of any kind. Came with the "pinks" listed below but since the names are different will sell separately (or together if preferred). Lovely complete tunic.
(Note, "white" highlights on tunic caused by camera flash - no wear or marks at all).
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 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |  Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
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 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |  Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |  Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |  Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |  Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |  Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
 Superb AAF officer's SD uniform tunic, named and with all insignia. |
Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt.
Lovely pair of service dress "pinks" as preferred by AAF officers. These are in excellent condition. Zip fly and all buttons present. Named inside to Captain De Loach (not the same name as the above tunic, although they did come together). No wear, mothing or damage of any kind, just an outstanding clean pair which come with the original wartime canvas belt with brass slider buckle.
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 Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt |  Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt |
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 Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt |  Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt |
 Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt |  Superb AAF officer's "pinks" named and including webbing trouser belt |
AAF officer's parachute / kit bag named to 8th Air Force B-17 pilot.
OD canvas kit bag / parachute bag in perfect condition, only lightly soiled with no wear or damage. Well marked with nomenclature AN6501-1 and clearly named to Lt. Col. E. Magnusson. Magnusson was a B-17 pilot in the 8th Air Force. He was shot down over the mountains in Yugoslavia and helped by the Partisan resistance to escape and get back to England. Well worth researching his history.
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 AAF officer's parachute / kit bag named to 8th Air Force pilot |  AAF officer's parachute / kit bag named to 8th Air Force pilot |
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 AAF officer's parachute / kit bag named to 8th Air Force pilot |  AAF officer's parachute / kit bag named to 8th Air Force pilot |
 AAF officer's parachute / kit bag named to 8th Air Force pilot |
Rare US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition.
Examples of the B-4 life vest with US Navy contract and property marks are quite rare, and this is a lovely example. Some minor storage soiling but overall shows little or no signs of actual use. The rubberized canvas is still flexible, without the usual signs of "crispiness". Rubber inflation tubes are still good.
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SOLD
 US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |  US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |
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 US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |  US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |
 US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |  US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |
 US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |  US Navy marked B-4 life vest in great condition |
US WWII survival / first aid kit.
Unknown variation I've never come across before. Waterproof plastic container complete and full with wartime survival aids and first aid items including P-38 tin opener, tourniquet, several bandages and dressings, burn ointment, "leather leaves" (soap impregnated paper) and prophylactic. The pouch would also serve as a water bottle. This rolls up and seals with a strap and buckle. All wartime issue components in great condition. It may be a late war trial piece or perhaps a personalization. Very interesting.
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 US WWII survival / first aid kit |  US WWII survival / first aid kit |
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 US WWII survival / first aid kit |  US WWII survival / first aid kit |
 US WWII survival / first aid kit |  US WWII survival / first aid kit |
 US WWII survival / first aid kit |  US WWII survival / first aid kit |
 US WWII survival / first aid kit |  US WWII survival / first aid kit |
RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather.
Made to the exact same pattern as the RAF 1936 pattern boots, but in some ways superior, using a higher grade of leather and Merino wool sheepskin linings. This Australian made pair by Bedggood is in brown leather—popular with AAF pilots and crews based in Australia and the Pacific theatre. They were also made in black leather for the RAAF and RNZAF but evidently crews wore whatever was available. A very good example showing only light wear and use, retaining original leather soles and Dunlop rubber heels, and fastening strap across the top. They also still have their insoles installed. Well marked on the boot-strap pullers with the maker's name and Size 8, Fitting 3 (UK sizes; US would be 9)
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 RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |  RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |
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 RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |  RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |
 RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |  RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |
 RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |  RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |
 RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |  RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |
 RAAF / AAF Australian made 1936 Pattern Flying Boots by Bedggood in brown leather. |
RARE US Marine Corps property marked NAF1092 flying helmet with TH-37 receivers, short rubber wiring cord and wings/name tag to back.
USMC marked examples of this otherwise fairly common flying helmet are EXTREMELY rare! In 30 years of collecting - this is one of about 3 I have ever seen .his example is just about perfect. Leather pockets sewn to each side containing correct TH-37 receivers with short, rubber coated wiring loom and sewn to back is a leather USN name tag / pilot wing to F. Tom Rose USNR. Condition is incredible and shows almost no wear. This is a rare helmet and one which would be very difficult to upgrade.
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SOLD
 US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |  US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |
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 US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |  US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |
 US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |  US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |
 US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |  US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |
 US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |  US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |
 US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |  US Marine Corps marked NAF1092 flying helmet with wings/name tag to back |
RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask.
For those who like a battle wornflying helmet - here is a Type B which has, quite literally "been through the war" yet remains in good displayabel condition. Based on the overall pattern and sewing, it is most probably a Sterling, possibly dating from as early as 1936 (label is long gone), and has been modified to accept the strap/harness of a Type E* and also Type G oxygen mask. This modification was not uncommon, but surprisingly few examples survive. It has a repair to the interior chamois lining. The crown evidently being worn to such a degree that a large, diamond-shape patch of velvet has been cemented into place. The velvet itself shows wear and soiling. Both interior chamois "donuts" have been removed (also not an uncommon modification to provide a better fit) and rear opening has been sewn shut. The leather is in good shape, clean and flexible with a couple of minor nicks. The zipped ear housings are superb and have lovely crisp A-crown-M stamps and retain both leather pull tabs and early bakelite telephone holders. Chin strap Bennett buckle has lost its leather covering. Face defenders are still in place.
A lovely combat veteran and scarce variant.
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SOLD
 RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |  RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |
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 RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |  RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |
 RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |  RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |
 RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |  RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |
 RAF Type B helmet, probably an early Sterling, modified for use with E* or G mask |
US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth.
Very hard to find B-6 goggles which were the precursors of the B-7 /AN6530 and utilized the same lenses. Lovely nickel plated frames with the nicely styled American Optical logo "winged globe" on the adjustment screw, tubular top vents, separate rubber cushions and an off-white elastic strap. The brown cushions are still soft and pliable and 100% original (period) but look as though they were replaced at some time during the working life of the goggles. The strap is clean and retains some elasticity. The goggles come in their original American Optical aluminium storage case together with a lovely soft cleaning cloth/wrap.
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 US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |  US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |
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 US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |  US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |
 US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth.DSCN6001 |  US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |
 US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |  US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |
 US Air Corps Type B-6 flying goggles with case and cleaning cloth. |
RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers. Large size.
Very good Type G oxygen mask fitted with an excellent Type 28 microphone assembly that includes a Type 27 carbon microphone, Q cord, Type 16 receivers and bell plug. The rubber mask is exceptional, with no signs of wear or perishing, no cracking - not even around the nosewire lugs and stress points - and clean suede lining. The grey elastic webbing harness has lost some of its elasticity and the black rubber bands are replacements - but it is still clean and fitted with the early flat "8" shaped hook. An excellent mask with a scarce microphone and complete external wiring assembly, ready to pop into your early Type C, D (or modified B) helmet.
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SOLD
 RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |  RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |
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 RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |  RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |
 RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |  RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |
 RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |  RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |
 RAF Type G oxygen mask with Type 28 mic. assembly, long wiring loom and receivers |
RAF oxygen tube for Type G / H mask, Mk IV with rare emergency bale-out tube.
Oxygen tubes (hoses) for wartime masks are becoming more and more difficult to source, and this is an absolute beauty — as well as being a scarce variant with a very rare accessory fitted. Standard gauge oxygen tube Mk IV, late war issue for bomber crews, having the emergency bale-out attachment and including the extremely rare narrow tube which attaches to the bale-out oxygen bottle. Excellent condition with no cracking to the rubber. Includes the brass connector and crocodile clip, as well as the plastic screw-in connector for attaching to the G and H oxygen mask.
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SOLD
 RAF oxygen tube for Type G / H mask, Mk IV with emergency bale-out tube |  RAF oxygen tube for Type G / H mask, Mk IV with emergency bale-out tube |
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 RAF oxygen tube for Type G / H mask, Mk IV with emergency bale-out tube |  RAF oxygen tube for Type G / H mask, Mk IV with emergency bale-out tube |
US Air Corps Type A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins.
Introduced in the early 1920s for issue to Army Air Corps aviators, these moccasin-style Type A-1 flying boots remained in inventory until WWII. They are cut from heavy leather and thickly fur-lined for warmth and comfort. Interestingly, though a perfect matching pair showing equal wear, the left has completely different style of buckles to the right boot (see pictures). Excellent condition showing some use but no wear or damage.
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SOLD
 US Air Corps Type A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |  US Air Corps Type A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |
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 US Air Corps Type A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |  US Air Corps TYpe A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |
 US Air Corps TYpe A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |  US Air Corps TYpe A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |
 US Air Corps TYpe A-1 Flying Boots / Moccasins |
US AAF Bomber Crew Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger, Type A-9.
The standard flying gloves/gauntlets
/mittens worn by all AAF air gunners in exposed crew positions in WWII. Frostbite was a major hazard (more aviators suffered frostbite injuries than from enemy action) and these might help somewhat - although they had to removed to reload or fix jammed guns. Shearling lined leather gloves with a separate trigger finger and thumb so they could be worn while in combat. This pair shows light use but no excessive wear and leather is in great condition. Both have great labels inside.
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SOLD
 US AAF Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger, Type A-9 |  US AAF Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger, Type A-9 |
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 US AAF Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger, Type A-9 |  US AAF Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger, Type A-9 |
US Navy Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger.
The US Navy version of the A-9 air gunner's gloves pictured above. the USN also operated bomber/depth charge dropping aircraft in cold weather conditions and these helped air gunners to avoid frostbite. Tags indicating size medium, and marked with the USN emblem on the backs (one is slightly fainter than the other). Excellent condition.
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SOLD
 US Navy Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger |  US Navy Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger finger |
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 US Navy Air Gunner's gloves with separate trigger fingerDSCN6061 |
Fantastic RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) by Burberrys.
Very rare RAF "Air Rank" officer's cap only available to ranks of Air Commodore and above (equivalent of general in the army). This is an absolute beauty by Burberrys of London. Unfortunately no ID (Generals didn't feel the need to name their uniform items) but a good wartime piece showing just enough use. No wear or damage, just a microscopic surface track (about 1/4-inch long) on the top which is barely visible and the cap is slightly dusty from storage. Excellent badge and two rows of "scrambled egg" to the patent leather peak. Patent leather chin strap. These do not come along very often and this is a lovely example.
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SOLD
 RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |  RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |
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 RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |  RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |
 RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |  RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |
 RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |  RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |
 RAF peaked /visor cap for an officer of Air Rank (General equivalent) |
RAF Other Ranks Service Dress tunic belt and buckle.
Often missing from RAF OR service dress uniforms. Blue wool serge belt with brass 2-prong buckle. 3 sets of holes. Excellent condition. Wartime period.​
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SOLD
 RAF Other Ranks Service Dress tunic belt and buckle |  RAF Other Ranks Service Dress tunic belt and buckle |
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 RAF Other Ranks Service Dress tunic belt and buckle |  RAF Other Ranks Service Dress tunic belt and buckle |