Again guys thanks for the comments
First off just to say that I have no financial/commercial interest in this helmet whatsoever and am not looking to purchase it so whether its worth $1 or $100k I really dont mind - other than the "value" it has to this hobby IF it does have some pedigree. Lets not forget this is a hobby!
Some comments:
1) I have not handled this helmet personally yet - I'm only relying on photo evidence like the rest of you. However I trust the person greatly who owns the helmet and have known him for years
2) Mac- yes the comparison against the ESB promo had been in mind - however though there are some similarities - such as the marking on Vaders rear left inside of the dome - there are significant differences.
3) The new replacement connection interests me -or actually the holes under. What are the screw placings of the apple tabs - is it possible they could have been there once?
4) I too looked at the 20thC as a comparison but from what I understand this is significantly larger. I'll get the precise measurments if I can before I go away on my hols on Friday
5) better pics of the neck show cracks, thats all
6) Colour - could it be fading of old paint. Is there any benefit to dating the paint to at least see how old it is. Can this be done in UK or US?
7) Some of the provenance I spoke about were some other parts that came with this - one of which had what I BELIEVE to be an accurate B&N wardrope tag. I'm just verifying that separately.
8) In addition the circumstances surrounding it are interesting. Over the years I've heard some yearns on this subject but this one is a little different. There was certainly no "sting" here. Sorry to be vague, but I'm just qualifying my interest.
Cheers
Jez