Pittsburgh Steelers football helmet worn by Hall of Fame cornerback Mel Blount, circa 1980. The black Riddell helmet features the Steelers logo on the right side and a single gold stripe running down the center. Blount’s jersey number, "47" is affixed in white numerals to both the front and rear of the helmet. A Riddell label (model “AF2”) appears on the interior, along with two size labels (“7 ¼”). The helmet is complete with all its interior padding and original chin strap. The mounting brackets for the facemask are broken, but remnants remain attached to three of the four exterior screws. The original facemask accompanies the helmet (not attached). Mel Blount was not only one of the greatest defensive backs in franchise history, but also in NFL history. A five-time Pro Bowler and two-time First Team All Pro selection, Blount was one of the cornerstones of the club’s legendary “Steel Curtain” defense that helped lead the club to four Super Bowl victories between the years 1974 and 1979. Blount, whose career spanned the years 1970 to 1983 (all spent with the Steelers), was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1975, which was the same season in which he led the league in interceptions with 11. In addition to his Hall of Fame induction in 1989, Blount is also a member of the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, and the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor. The helmet displays heavy wear, including various nicks, deep scratches, and abrasions to the exterior.