France, III. Republic. A First War Infantry Issued M15 Adrian Helmet, c. 1916

(Casque Adrian). Instituted in 1915. A French Model M1915 Adrian helmet for infantry troops, constructed of a magnetic metal alloy shell with a dark green painted exterior. The crown features a raised die-stamped magnetic comb secured in place with rivets fastened at the three, six, nine, and twelve o’clock positions. Fastened to the peak of the helmet is a magnetic metal insignia bearing a Flaming Grenade signature to infantry troops. The lower portion of the shell flares into an outward brim, with the edge rolled back and crimped into a smooth edge.Two sets of dual rivets flank each side of the helmet, securely maintaining the multi-piece structure. A narrow magnetic metal frame is set around the interior circumference, secured in place with the aforementioned exterior rivets. The frame holds in place a leather liner with a core consisting of coarse animal hairs, bearing multiple integrated flaps, each perforated with an eyelet through which is looped a period original drawstring. Emanating from the sides of the helmet are two magnetic metal loops, but the chin strap and its associated hardware is missing. The helmet is unmarked and measures 225 mm (w) x 310 mm, with issues consistent with age, such as deterioration of the leather on the inside, with wear to the paint throughout, in fair condition.