This is an original WWII McCord manufactured M1-C paratrooper helmet shell. It has a transitional manganese steel rim meeting at the front. Front seam M1-Cs are quite uncommon and, in fact, this is only the second front seam M1-C we have encountered in recent years compared to the relatively common rear seam variations. The helmet's heat stamp of 1096H dates the helmet's production to November 1944. The helmet retains its original factory paint finish, cork texture, and OD#3 (khaki) paratrooper straps. Interestingly, penciled on the front of the helmet are a set of eyes. Whether these were applied by the veteran or a child after the war is unknown, however they shouldn't be too difficult to remove if the new owner so desires. This M1-C helmet shell would pair quite nicely with a Westinghouse paratrooper liner.