The Riddell WD2.  A model that many people will argue never existed.  The WD1 model helmet had been discontinued.  Riddell had used up their inventory of internal padding - with the exception of crown pads.  Their VSR4 model was doing well as the preferred helmet of the NFL, however many of the players that had worn the WD1 were not comfortable with the VSR4.  Long story short, Riddell combined the rear/side padding of the VSR4 along with the crown padding of the WD1 and called it the WD2.  There were very few produced, most went to the NFL teams, some went to colleges and a few snuck into high schools.  Today, they are rarely seen.  

The helmet is a Riddell WD2 model helmet although has an internal sticker of WD1.  The helmet has an original date code of 1997.  A very rare model.  Additionally with the rarity of the helmet model comes with the facemask.  Florida State wore a special order red.  A dark crimson red called Florida State Red.  We have all seen FSU helmets put together by the helmet DIYers and decal slappers in the hobby.  They will use a scarlett red mask or a cardinal colored mask.  Why?  Well, the minimum order qty for special order mask colors from Schutt was 36.  Thus, most Florida State “gamers” from this time period will have the wrong colored mask.  Stay clear.

The Schutt thin wire ROPO facemask has a date code of 1997 and is the correct color.  The helmet is very nice and in wonderful display condition with very light wear to the exterior and interior.  The decals are original, properly positioned and adherred very well to the helmet with no lifting.   A VERY RARE ready to display in your collection, at a very good price.