I thought it strange that there is no leather sweat band.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

.

Could be British Armored

Thank you.

Mystery solved!

I googled C.D. 18 Black Beret

Answer: UK Civil Defense

 

Britain's Civil Defense Corps was a non-military organization that was founded in 1949 to be mobilized in the event of a major national emergency, with nuclear war being anticipated as the primary threat. The Corps was stood down in mainland Britain in 1968.
The black beret was standard issue.

 

Were they repurposed for any military uses?

 

So it was only around for 19 years.

Hard to find? Maybe. 

Does anyone care? Probably not.....LOL

Yep, I agree with you that "rare" does not always equate to "valuable" or  "expensive".   It seems I often buy something that I think is neat but is of no interest to anyone else.  

 

My family motto has always been:

 

Покупайте дорого, продавайте дешево!

 

Buy high, sell low!

 

I believe it's on an ancient family crest somewhere. LOL