This is a brodie from my own collection I purchased 6 years ago for 6 British Pounds. The helmet is complete with liner and retains at least 90% of the original enamel finish.
This particular helmet is very rare indeed. I know of no other example in any museum or private collection. If someone here does own one, please pipe up!
The helmet belonged to 14223 Private Charles Thorpe 1st Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment. I know that Charles first entered into France on the 17/2/1915 as a reinforcement for the 1st Battalion.
The red X on the front refers to the 10th Regiment of Foot and the devil being the symbol of Lincoln (Lincolnshire).........The Imp. This device was worn on the helmets of the 1st Battalion throughout the war.
We know from regimental texts that the first issue of the Brodie was made in the Armentieres Sector during the last week of March 1916 to the 1st Battalion.
Please note the colours of in the photo are not exact.
Steve.
Comment