British WWI 'P' Tube Helmet & Satchel

The P or Tube helmet is of gray flannelette with a blue and white striped flannel pajama material interior lining, fitted with screw-in metal bezel and glass eye pieces as was used for the second pattern Hypo helmet.  A metal tube exhalation valve is attached with a rubber tube valve on the interior of the helmet, and the helmet is stenciled at the base "P".  The tube valve fitting has oxidized and partially separated from the flannel along a portion of its circumference but remains securely in place.  Lacks the rubber exhalation valve; the rubber portion on the interior is surprisingly good.  Exterior has stains and discolorations but remains in very good overall condition.  Includes the correct carrying satchel and liner.  Satchel lacks one closure button.

The P or Tube helmets were introduced in September 1915, and featured improvements on the earlier Hypo helmets.  The two layers of flannelette exhibited an increased absorption of the chemicals used to neutralize the gas agents.  The P designation denotes the use of sodium phenolate and glycerin which neutralized the chlorine gas then in use, as well as phosgene that the British (correctly) anticipated was soon to be added to the German gas arsenal.  $2000 - $3000