WWII German Luftwaffe Flight Protective Helmet SSK 90- If you do not know the history behind this helmet, it's as intriguing as the helmet itself! During the Battle for Britain, the crews of the He 111's were taking heavy casualties with a large number of head wounds. Remember, all they had for headgear was the cloth or leather flight helmet, which afforded no protection. The crews even resorted to removing the liners from their steel helmets and wearing these over the flight helmet. This reminds me so much of the scene from "Apocalypse Now" where the choppers are swooping in over the beach! Those of you who know what I am talking about will appreciate the connection. This awesome helmet was quickly put into production and manufactured by the Siemens Company (that's right, they are still in business). This is a very good example of this "type" helmet. The leather covering the steel plates has a bit of scuffing. The leather comb is present and has some minor scuffing as well. The leather straps are intact and fully functional. The brown cloth lining (identical to the color as the Luftwaffe flight suits) is sound with minor discoloration and wear and the complete Siemens tag, identifying this helmet as the SSK 90, is clearly visible. The size stamp identifies it as a 57/59. In the "old days", the early reference books referred to this as the “Jet Pilot's Helmet” and pictured it with the comb being worn towards the back in a "Buck Rogers" fashion. Very desirable helmet, in very good condition!