WWII USAAF Type A-11 Leather Flying Helmet by J. G. Menihan Corporation with ANB-H-1 Radio Receivers (Size Medium)

Description

This is an original WWII U.S. Army Air Force A-11 intermediate flying helmet with ANB-H-1 radio receivers. The A-11 was introduced on August 6, 1943, and became one of the most popular flying helmets of the Army Air Forces. This particular example was manufactured by J. G. Menihan Corporation and is a size medium. The radio receivers were manufactured by Best Manufacturing Company, Incorporated, and are housed in Firestone Tire and Rubber Company mountings. Notably, the chamois lining is marked with the initials of its original owner, "DBE".

Provenance

This flying helmet was found in the attic of a home south of Fort Worth, Texas.

Condition Report

This piece is in excellent, complete condition. Both the leather exterior and chamois lining are soft and pliable, with minimal creases. All of the snaps are intact, the radio receivers appear to have never been removed from the helmet, and the cord shows no deterioration.