British MkII helmet "HBH: 1939 Harrison Bros & Howson"

An English MkII helmet from 1939 used by the Dutch PTT (Postal, Telegraph and Telephone Service). After the liberation and in the early post-war years, the PTT acquired large batches of British surplus helmets for use by its own personnel, such as the company fire brigade and air defense services.

Key Features

• Model: British MkII "Brodie" helmet.
• Distinguishing marking: These helmets often feature a "PTT" stamp or logo, usually embossed (pressed) or painted on the front.
• Color: Often repainted in a specific color suited to the civilian task, such as black or dark gray for the fire brigade or air defense.
• Year of manufacture: Many of these helmets bear British manufacturers' stamps (such as HBH or BMB) with the year—in this case 1939—struck into the rim of the helmet shell.

Historical Context

During the occupation and immediately thereafter, there was a severe shortage of protective equipment for vital government enterprises. The PTT therefore made grateful use of the enormous stockpiles of British helmets that had been left behind by the Allies or became available through surplus channels. They were not only used for physical protection but also served to identify the various departments within the PTT during emergencies.