Original Item: Only One Available. Excellent genuine World War II model 1926 Belgian Army “Adrian” helmet. The helmet retains the original olive green paint and is complete with the Belgian Lion badge to front. Size is approximately US 7.25 (58cm). Features a wonderful complete original leather liner in excellent condition. Overall condition of the helmet is excellent, shell shows some minor dings, scratches and paint chips consistent with age.
In 1926 the Adrian helmet was modified by being constructed of stronger steel and simplified by having the main part of the helmet stamped from one piece of metal, and therefore without the joining rim around the helmet that characterizes the M15. The large ventilation hole under the comb, which had been a weak point of the old design, was also replaced with a series of small holes. The M26 helmet continued in use with the French Army until after World War II, and was also used by the French police up to the 1970s.
During the interwar period Belgium began to produce their own domestically made M26 Adrians and exported them around the globe. These helmets can be distinguished from their French counterparts, because they have a slightly different comb and a wider rim.
In other countries the Adrian-type helmets were also in use with the fire-fighting units, railway guards or marine infantry (e.g. Japan’s SNLF). Adrian helmets are still prized by collectors today.