WW1 Canadian CEF 5th Division Officers Painted Helmet

This item is a World War I Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) 5th Division officer’s helmet, featuring period-applied paint. The helmet is manufactured from steel and follows the Brodie pattern commonly used by Commonwealth forces during the First World War. The exterior displays hand-painted insignia denoting service with the 5th Division, which was authorized in 1916 and became operational in England before its dissolution in 1918. The painted insignia typically includes a formation badge unique to the division. The helmet retains its original liner and chinstrap, both showing wear consistent with age and use. These helmets were issued to officers for personal protection against shrapnel and debris. This example represents Canadian military equipment and its distinctive markings, providing insight into unit identification practices during the conflict. The helmet remains an artifact linked to the organizational history of the Canadian Corps in the Great War.