Truly Amazing Things Happen When You Are Kilted

[gordontaos]

I wander around Santa Fe, New Mexico kilted at least twice a week. I have gotten used to the pretty constant stream of compliments and admirers. However yesterday I was completely shocked.
I was strolling through the local video rental store, when a gentleman searched me out. He said that he had to quickly move out of his apartment and that he had two WW1 British Helmets that he would like to give to me, since he figured that since I was kilted that I would appreciate them more than just about anyone else. Well, he was absolutely correct and we went out to his car where he then gave me the two helmets as well as a mint condition first edition copy of a book of WW1 photographs.
I heartily thanked him and he rode off into the sunset.
When I got the items home I did a quick internet search and figure that each of the helmets may be worth at least $100 US, and the book around $30. I am certainly not an expert in this area and am wondering if anyone else might know of their worth? I am not looking to sell them, just get a better idea of the generosity of a stranger.
So, all in all a spectacular day, simply because I was kilted.

[Kiltboy]

How fun. Yes, unusual things happen in a kilt. And in Santa Fe, anything is possible.

[dakuda]

Very nice, are there any markings on the helmets or liners ??

[gordontaos]

Very nice, are there any markings on the helmets or liners ??

very faintly, in numbers 3/8 inch high, on the inside brim, 18 320. Or perhaps 48...or H8...

[jhughes]

Those helmets are wwi us. There should be a number stamped on the outer rim on the back side. They look to be in very good condition, especially the liners. I'd definitely say worth $100 each.

[Riverkilt]

Bought one last year to wear in our local Veteran's Day parade to honor my great uncle Charles Lewis Scott who served in France in War One. Pretty sure I paid just under $100 for it. Was technically a Canadian War One helmet - but close enough for the Parade.

[gordontaos]

Those helmets are wwi us. There should be a number stamped on the outer rim on the back side. They look to be in very good condition, especially the liners. I'd definitely say worth $100 each.

Why do you say that they are WW1 US? Also, there are no numbers stamped on outside.

[MacEanruig]

I would say that is your lucky kilt. Well done, sir!

[jhughes]

The British helmets used a different type of liner, and had a different colour and finish.

This is the helmet I used when I reenacted WWI US, you can see the number I was referring to. I don't recall ever seeing any other markings on that type of helmet.

[gordontaos]

Well OK. The other helmet has the marking FS 181. Any idea what the markings stand for and/or the value?