Description
This French Model 1915 “Adrian” Helmet represents one of the earliest and most historically significant steel combat helmets adopted during the First World War. Finished in the original horizon blue paint, this example predates the darker post-1916 tones and reflects the chromatic identity of early-war French infantry equipment. Its surface exhibits the expected, honest patina associated with more than a century of age, while preserving excellent structural integrity and strong visual presence. The Flaming bomb crest designates this as a infantry helmet.
Produced by Le Jouet de Paris, one of the major wartime manufacturers, this helmet retains its desirable Phares Auteroche Type 1 crest, the earliest pattern ventilation and reinforcement comb used before later simplifications. The crest’s profile and riveting remain consistent with documented 1915 production, making this a highly collectible variant sought by curators and advanced collectors alike.
Inside, the helmet retains its intact 1st pattern liner, a configuration distinguished by a single piece of leather cut into 7 tongues and a simple drawstring arrangement—an early design soon replaced as production was streamlined. Surviving liners of this pattern are increasingly scarce, and its presence here significantly elevates the historical value of the helmet. The liner exhibits age-appropriate wear yet remains complete and firmly seated within the shell. The rivet securing one end of the chin strap has been lost to time.
As a near complete, early-production Model 1915 Adrian, this piece encapsulates the rapid evolution of protective equipment during the Great War. The French adoption of the Adrian marked one of the first systematic uses of steel combat helmets in modern warfare, influencing later designs across multiple nations. Its combination of original horizon blue finish, first-type crest, early manufacturer, and 1st pattern liner makes this helmet a museum-grade artifact that reflects both the technological innovation and the human experience of the conflict.
This is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a highly authentic, early-war French Adrian helmet with all the correct and desirable early features.
