Authentic vintage mid-century MSA (Mine Safety Appliances) Skullgard Type K Full Brim Hard Hat. Found locally in Tucson, Arizona—an area world-renowned for its rich copper mining history—this helmet was most likely used in the local mining or smelting industries and carries beautiful vintage industrial character.
Material & Construction:
- Phenolic Bakelite Resin (Not Fiberglass): The distinct grid-like cross-hatch structure visible on both the top and underside of the helmet is the texture of canvas fabric layers impregnated with a phenol-formaldehyde thermosetting resin (historically popularized under the brand name Bakelite).
Key Features & Collector Details:
- Comes equipped with an authentic vintage Huntsman Brimaster Model visor attachment frame, explicitly stamped with U.S. Patent 3,114,914.
- The heavy-duty rear coil tension spring and front quick-release twist fasteners are fully intact.
- Period-Correct Interior: Features the rare, original 4-point permanent canvas/cotton cloth suspension webbing with its original center tie-cord adjustments. This fixed-rivet design dates the hat to the 1940s or 1950s (pre-1961 styling).
Specifics:
- Brand: MSA (Mine Safety Appliances)
- Model: Skullgard Type K
- Original/Reproduction: Original
- Time Period Manufactured: 1940-1950s
- Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
- Theme: Mining & Industrial Safety
- Industry: Mining, Steelworking, Welding
- Featured Refinements: Vintage Hard Hat / Mining Helmet
- Modified Item: No (equipped with a period-correct, removable vintage accessory)
Material Specifics
- Material: Phenolic Bakelite Resin / Laminated Textile
- Accessory Material: Aluminum / Steel (Huntsman Brimaster attachment)
- Suspension Type: 4-Point Fixed Cotton/Canvas Webbing
Condition: Exceptional display patina. The phenolic shell is structurally solid with no major cracks. The interior canvas straps show expected age and discoloration but are remarkably intact and free of major rotting or tearing.
Please note: Sold strictly as an industrial collectible / historical display piece. Not rated for modern OSHA workplace safety compliance.