Warelics Militaria Collectibles

(465)  MODEL 1940, SINGLE-DECAL LUFTWAFFE TROPICAL ( PROBABLE DAK ) "SAND" CAMOUFLAGED HELMET.

This model 1940, single-decal LUFTWAFFE helmet has been painted in the field with a very rough-textured YELLOW-BEIGE colored camouflage ( "TROPICAL" ) paint scheme, probably for use in North Africa, Greece, Sicily, or southern Italy, by a LUFTWAFFE 88 mm. PAK, or FLAK crewman. The texture of the paint is such that it appears that sand was mixed with the paint ( photo ). The very rough, yellow-beige colored camouflage paint appears to have been brush-applied, and is approximately 90% intact ( photo ). There are numerous areas of very OLD, SURFACE ( brown ) rust ( photo ), and the camouflage paint has worn off along the rolled helmet rim in spots ( photo ). The LUFTWAFFE eagle and swastika decal, on the helmet's left side, has been intentionally "painted around", and is approximately 60% intact, with a fair amount of surface wear, and a resultant loss of detail in the decal ( photo ). The entire inside of the helmet shell is factory-sprayed in the original Luftwaffe blue-gray paint ( photo ). The inside of the left helmet skirt is die-stamped with the helmet shell manufacturer's foundry code, "ET" ( "Eisenhuttenwerke, Thale" ), and the shell's size "64" ( photo ). The interior of the rear of the blue-gray-painted skirt is die-stamped with a foundry "run" number, "1206" ( photo ). The helmet liner system is a model 1931 type, with a ZINC liner band, and a sheepskin-leather liner with eight tongues, which are tied-together, at their apices, with a length of ORIGINAL, ( soiled ) "nylon" drawstring ( photo ). The leather liner is somewhat frayed along its lower edge, and moderately soiled, but there are no rips or tears ( photo ). The pinkish-tan leather liner is still relatively soft and pliable and one of the leather tongues is ink-stamped with the liner's size, "56"( photo ). The liner grades in GOOD ++, to VERY GOOD overall condition. The original black leather chinstrap is well-worn, but full length and complete ( photo ). The tip of the leather chinstrap is embossed with the maker's name ( ? ), and dated 1941 ( photo ). The helmet shell has no battle damage, dents, or dells. The TROPICAL camouflage paint is well-aged, and, as mentioned above, has some OLD, brown surface rust in spots ( photo ).

N.B.: There is a 2 cm. X 1 cm. area, immediately above the left stamped air vent ( photo ), which appears to have been "touched-up" with a slightly off-color paint at some point in time ( NOT "fresh" paint; age ? ). The overall condition of this Luftwaffe "DAK", or "TROPICAL" camouflage helmet is VERY GOOD.

ORIGINAL, MODEL 1940, SINGLE-DECAL LUFTWAFFE ( "DAK", OR TROPICAL ) "SAND" CAMOUFLAGE-PAINTED HELMET.

$2,250.00  ORDER

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Helmet Back   Helmet Top  

(464)  RARE, ALL-ORIGINAL, MODEL 1942, SINGLE-DECAL HEER, WHITE ( "SNOW" ) CAMOUFLAGED HELMET.

This M42 single-decal Heer helmet has approximately 95% of the PERIOD-APPLIED, WHITE ( "snow" ) camouflage paint remaining ( photo ). There is some wear to the white paint, most noticible around the flared helmet rim ( photo ), around the bilateral stamped air vents ( photo ), and also on the dome ( photo ). The three domed helmet rivets are missing most of their white paint ( photo ). The SILVER FOIL-on-black "Wehrmachtsadler" decal was intentionally "painted-around", and is virtually 100% intact ( photo ). The interior of the left helmet skirt is die-stamped with the helmet shell manufacturer's foundry code, "EF", and the helmet shell's size, "62" ( photo ). The inside of the rear of the helmet skirt is die-stamped with a foundry "run" number, "33?3" ( photo ). The interior of the helmet has a moderate amount of OLD surface oxidation throughout ( photo ). The model 1931 helmet liner system consists of a ZINC ( rusted ) liner band, and a well-worn, brown leather liner with eight tongues ( photo ). One of the leather tongues is ink-stamped with the liner's size, "54" ( photo ). There is a length of ORIGINAL ( soiled ) white "nylon" drawstring still present, but not tied ( photo ). The ORIGINAL, ( late-war ) black leather chinstrap is present, but has been shortened ( photo ). The M31 liner and chinstrap grade in GOOD ++ condition overall. The helmet shell has no dents, dells, or battle damage, and grades in VERY GOOD condition.

RARE, ORIGINAL, MODEL 42, SINGLE DECAL HEER, WHITE ( "SNOW" ) CAMOUFLAGE-PAINTED HELMET.

$1,595.00  ORDER

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Helmet Back  

(462)  MODEL 1934, DOUBLE-DECAL, SS-SD ( SS SICHERHEITSDIENST, OR SECURITY POLICE ) "MEDIUM DUTY" HELMET.

This unique version of the SS steel helmet was worn almost exclusively by the dreaded SS Security Police, or SS "SICHERHEITSDIENST". The helmet shell is forged out of a special lightweight steel, in the model 1934 civil police style, with its characteristic short skirt and scallop, and longer front visor ( photo ). The stamped-out, bilateral air vents have an exagerated, convex, or "domed" appearance ( photo ). The original, factory-applied, smooth, medium "feldgrau" finish is approximately 98% intact ( photo ), with some minor "scuffing" present ( photo ). The first pattern SS runic decal, applied to the helmet's right side, appears to be unlacquered, and is almost 100%, with just a few minor scratches and abrasions ( photo ). The NSDAP party shield decal, on the helmet's left side, also appears to be unlacquered, and is about 95% intact ( photo ). The interior of the right helmet skirt is ( weakly ) die-stamped, "Edelstahl" ( literally "royal", or "fine" quality steel ) ( photo ). The civil police style helmet liner system consists of a fibreboard liner band, and a light-tan, soft sheepskin-leather liner with eight ( non-ventilated ) tongues ( photo ), which are tied together, at their apices, with a length of ORIGINAL, soiled-white, "nylon" drawstring ( photo ). The tip of one of the leather tongues is ink-stamped with the helmet liner's "Kopfweite", or head size, "55" ( photo ). There are four, thin, cork "spacers" placed circumferentially between the liner band and the interior of the helmet shell ( photo ). The liner grades in VERY GOOD PLUS condition overall. The original, black leather chinstrap is full length, and in EXCELLENT condition ( photo ). The overall condition of this UNIQUE-STYLE, SS Security Police helmet is VERY GOOD ++, to low-EXCELLENT.

VERY RARE, MODEL 1934, DOUBLE-DECAL, SS-SICHERHEITSDIENST "MEDIUM DUTY" LIGHTWEIGHT-STEEL HELMET.

$5,500.00  ORDER

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Helmet Back   Helmet Top   Helmet Brim  

(454)  MODEL 1940, SINGLE-DECAL, KRIEGSMARINE COASTAL ARTILLERY ( MEDITERRANEAN AREA ) CAMOUFLAGE HELMET.

This model 1940, single-decal KRIEGSMARINE helmet has been PERIOD camouflage spray-painted in a PALE YELLOW, or "sand" color, over the helmet's original dark gray-green factory-applied finish, producing a "two-tone" effect ( photo ). This camouflage paint scheme would most likely have been used by Kriegsmarine Coastal Artillery batteries in the Mediterranean theatre ( the south of France, North Africa, Greece, southern Italy, or Sicily ). The ORIGINAL camouflage paint scheme is approximately 75% present ( photo ), with most of the wear around the rolled rim ( photo ), and the helmet dome ( photo ). The GOLD-FOIL, "Wehrmachtsadler" decal was originally "painted-around" and about 60% of this decal can still be seen on the helmet's left side ( photo ). The inside of the left helmet skirt is die-stamped with the helmet shell manufacturer's foundry code, "NS", and the shell's size, "64" ( photo ). The interior of the rear of the helmet skirt is die-stamped with a factory "run" number, "DN38" ( photo ). The helmet's model 1931 style liner system consists of a ZINC liner band and a darkened leather liner with eight tongues, tied together, at their apices, with a length of ORIGINAL ( soiled ) drawstring ( photo ). The brown leather liner is stained and soiled, but is intact, and still fairly supple, with no rips or tears ( photo ). The original black leather chinstrap is present, but has been shortened ( photo ). The leather liner and chinstrap grade in overall fair to GOOD condition. The inside of the helmet shell has some OLD surface rust, both inside the dome, and on the inside of the skirt ( photo ), but there are no dents, dells, or battle damage to the helmet shell's exterior. The overall condition of this RARE, KRIEGSMARINE COASTAL ARTILLERY camouflage helmet is "USED; moderately aged; VERY GOOD".

RARE, M40, SINGLE-DECAL, MEDITERRANEAN THEATRE KRIEGSMARINE COASTAL ARTILLERY CAMOUFLAGE HELMET.

$2,250.00  ORDER

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Helmet Back   Helmet Left   Helmet Right   Helmet D Ring Detail  

(431)  VERY EARLY ( ca. 1933-35 ), "RZM" & "SS" STAMPED, TRANSITIONAL STYLE HELMET.

This so-called "transitional-style" helmet closely resembles the standard German WW I "trench helmet" ( models 1916, 1917, and 1918 ) insofar that it shares the same general profile as the aforementioned WW I era models, having the distinctive "coal basket" shape, with a long front visor, prominent neck skirt, and external air vent "lugs" ( photo ). However, this EXTREMELY RARE helmet was produced well after 1918 ( ca. 1933-35 ), and was specifically and exclusively procured for the ALLGEMEINE SS. The smoothly polished helmet shell is made of a steel alloy, and then factory-finished in a BLUE-black color. The very smooth finish has a decided "BLUED" appearance, closely mimicking the "blued" finish found on a very fine, expensive firearm ( photo ). The bilateral air vent lugs are the so-called "single-stage" type ( photo ). The right side of the interior of the helmet skirt is ( LIGHTLY ) die-stamped "RZM", within a circle ( photo ), while the opposite side of the skirt is ( LIGHTLY ) die-stamped with double SS sigrunen, also within a circle ( photo ). These stampings are NOT VISIBLE on the exterior surface(s) of the helmet skirt ( photo ). The model 1929 liner system consists of sturdy, carriage-leather liner band which is permanently attached to the helmet shell by three, solid-core RIVETS ( NOT two-tailed split brads ). There are three BLONDE ( goatskin ) leather helmet pads, each with two tongues ( photo ), which are tied together, at their apices, with a length of PERIOD drawstring ( photo ). All three liner pads still have their original "pillows" present, and the blonde goatskin liner is in SUPERB condition! The 20 mm. wide, "Karabiner" style, black leather chinstrap is riveted to the liner, and is stamped "RZM L2/5" ( photo ). The beautifully "BLUED", or "anodized" helmet finish is virtually 100% intact, with only a few VERY SMALL spots of SURFACE rust, chiefly around the bottom edge of the rolled rim ( photo ). The overall condition of this EXTREMELY RARE, and "EARLIEST" ALLGEMEINE SS helmet is absolutely remarkable; being a strong EXCELLENT!!

EXTREMELY RARE, "RZM" & "SS" MARKED, TRANSITIONAL STYLE, ALLGEMEINE SS HELMET, IN FABULOUS CONDITION!

Price Upon Request  ORDER  ON HOLD

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Helmet Back   Helmet Top   Helmet Brim   Helmet Strap Detail 1   Helmet Strap Detail 2   Helmet Strap Detail 3   Helmet Strap Detail 4  

(396)  EXTREMELY RARE, DOUBLE-DECAL, "EREL", HEER GENERAL'S VULKANFIBER PARADE HELMET

This HEER GENERAL'S lightweight "parade" helmet is made entirely of VULKANFIBER, by the prestigious "eReL" company. The helmet shell was made by pressing the Vulkanfiber in a mold, as there are some vertical "draw-down" striations still visible inside ( photo ), and outside of the front visor ( photo ). The Vulkanfiber shell was then completely bordered with an ALUMINUM "flange", which was riveted to the lower edge of the helmet skirt ( photo ). The helmet shell was then spray-painted in a MATTE "feldgrau" finish ( photo ). The left side of the helmet has a GOLD-FOIL, on black, Wehrmacht-style, eagle & swastika decal, which is coated with protective lacquer, 100% intact, and essentially PERFECT ( photo ). The helmet's right side has a red, white, and black TRICOLOR shield decal, which is also coated with lacquer, and virtually 100% intact ( photo ). There is round, screened air vent on each side of the helmet body, immediately above each decal ( photo ). The interior of the right side of the helmet skirt is stamped "DRP" ( "Deutsches Reich Patent", or "German government patented" ) ( photo ). The helmet liner is a UNIQUE ( GENERAL OFFICER-QUALITY ), light-TAN, sheepskin-leather, with nine-tongues, tied together, at their apices, with a length of original, soiled, white drawstring ( photo ). The leather liner's brow area has multiple, pinhole-size, air vents ( photo ). The "eReL" company logo, and "FIBER-HELM" is embossed into the leather, on each side ( photo ). The interior of the helmet dome has a large, round, black ersatz-leather "pillow", or cushion, with a large "eReL" logo, consisting of a highly-stylized profile of a helmeted German soldier, and "ROBERT LUBSTEIN, BERLIN NO. 55" ( photo ). The leather is also "initialed" on its left side, "S B" ( photo ). The liner is attached to the helmet body by three, round brads; one on each side, and one in the rear ( photo ). The 14 mm. wide, black leather, "Karabiner"-style chinstrap has the "quick- release" type, steel buckle, and is complete ( photo ). The liner, and chinstrap, are in overall VERY GOOD ++ condition ( photo ). The helmet body itself is in overall EXCELLENT condition, except for the presence of bilateral, 2 inch-long, vertical "splits" in the Vulkanfiber helmet "skirt" area ( photo ), ( photo ).

EXTREMELY RARE, "EREL" HEER GENERAL'S VULKANFIBER PARADE HELMET.

$3,850.00  ORDER

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Helmet Left   Helmet Number   Helmet Top  

(392)  ORIGINAL, TRI-COLOR CAMOUFLAGE-PAINTED, MODEL 1938, LUFTWAFFE PARATROOPER ( FALLSCHIRMJAEGER ) HELMET.

This model 1938, LUFTWAFFE paratrooper helmet is PERIOD camouflage-spray-painted in three colors; dark brown, green, and mustard-yellow ( photo ). The UNIQUE camouflage paint scheme is definitely OLD, and PERIOD-applied, and is approximately 95% intact ( photo ), with most of the wear around the helmet rim ( photo ). The three distinct camouflage paint colors are age-toned, but still fairly vibrant ( photo ). The LUFTWAFFE flying eagle & swastika transfer has been overpainted, but is still easily visible beneath the green camouflage paint ( photo ). The inside of the rear of the short helmet "skirt" is die-stamped with the helmet shell manufacturer's foundry run-number, "3152" ( photo ). The standard, model 1938, paratrooper helmet liner is attached to the helmet shell by four steel "spanner" bolts, two in the rear of the shell ( photo ), and one on each side ( photo ). The helmet liner band is made of zinc ( photo ), and cushioned against the leather liner, with seven, shock-absorbing, grey rubber pads, which have "hardened" over the years ( photo ). The helmet liner itself is made of a still soft and supple, BLONDE-colored, sheepskin-leather ( photo ), which is maker-marked, "Karl Heisler, Berlin" ( photo ), and also ink-stamped with the helmet "shell" size, "Stahlhelm: Gr. 68", and the liner's size, "Kopfweite: Gr. 57" ( photo ). The sheepskin-leather liner is lightly soiled, and slightly "frayed" around its bottom edge ( photo ), but is not ripped or torn, and grades in VERY GOOD + overall condition. The original grey leather, paratrooper-style, "Y" harness and chinstrap is intact, and COMPLETE ( photo ), although the suede leather is missing from the underside of one of the grey leather straps ( photo ). The "Y" harness, and FULL chinstrap, grades as FAIR ++, to GOOD in its overall condition ( photo ). This UNIQUE, tri-color, camouflage paint scheme was most likely used in southern ITALY, or possibly, the post-D-DAY, NORMANDY campaign. The overall condition of this very interesting, three-color camouflaged, Luftwaffe Fallschirmjaeger helmet is VERY GOOD.

UNIQUE, TRI-COLOR CAMOUFLAGE-PAINTED, M38 LUFTWAFFE FALLSCHIRMJAEGER HELMET.

$6,995.00  ORDER  ON HOLD

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 Left   Strap Detail   Helmet Top  

(373)  RARE, HEER OFFICER'S, DOUBLE-DECAL, ALUMINUM PARADE / DRESS HELMET; IN TOP CONDITION, AND "NAMED" TO A HEER OBERLEUTNANT ( 1ST LT. ).

This VERY RARE, lightweight, ALL-ALUMINUM version of the famous German "Stahlhelm" was worn exclusively by Wehrmacht OFFICER'S on parade duty, and is constructed in the style of a German "civil" helmet; with the short "skirt", relatively longer front visor, and bilateral "salt & pepper" 7-hole airvents ( photo ). This exceptionally well-preserved, ALL-ORIGINAL example has approximately 98% of its medium gloss "Feldgrau", factory-sprayed finish ( photo ), with only a FEW, small areas of missing, or chipped paint ( photo ). The helmet's left side has a Wehrmacht design, SILVER FOIL-on-black, eagle and swastika decal, which is virtually 100%, and PERFECT! ( photo ). The right side of the helmet has the traditional, red/white/black, German national tricolor shield decal, which is approximately 98% present ( photo ). The inside of the rear of the helmet has the faintly written name of a German Army first lieutenant ( OBERLEUTNANT HOLERT ? ) ( photo ). The helmet's UNIQUE, OFFICER-QUALITY liner system is secured to the helmet "shell" by four flat rivets ( photo ), and consists of a nine tongue, light-brown calfskin liner ( photo ), with four thin cork spacers ( photo ). The tip of one of the leather tongues is ink-stamped with liner's size, "58" ( photo ). There is no metal liner band, as found in most German battle helmets. The 14 mm. wide, black leather chinstrap, has a steel, "quick-release" buckle hooked-on the left, black-painted metal "D"-bale( photo ), and a black-painted, "roller" buckle for adjusting the chinstrap's length ( photo ). Both metal "D"-bales are riveted to the leather liner ( photo ). The stitching in the back of the nine tongue, leather liner has rotted away, but the calfskin leather liner is still supple, and not "dried-out", ripped, or torn. However, the OVERALL condition of this unique, OFFICER'S liner is still VERY GOOD ++. The lightweight ALUMINUM helmet "shell" itself has a few minor "dings", and SHALLOW "dells" ( photo ), as one might expect due the softness of THIN aluminum. However, the OVERALL condition of the aluminum helmet body, and painted finish, is still EXCELLENT. This VERY RARE, WW II German Wehrmacht ( Heer ) OFFICER'S, lightweight aluminum, PARADE/DRESS helmet is tough to find in ANY condition; and even tougher to locate in this EXCELLENT state of preservation.

RARE, HEER OFFICER'S, DOUBLE-DECAL, ALUMINUM PARADE / DRESS HELMET; IN TOP CONDITION, AND "NAMED" TO A HEER OBERLEUTNANT ( 1ST LT. ).

$2,950.00  ORDER

Helmet Front   Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet 3/4 left  

(359)  SUPER-RARE, MODEL 1935, "QUIST- 64", DOUBLE DECAL, KRIEGSMARINE HELMET, IN FANTASTIC, TOP CONDITION!

This model 1935 KRIEGSMARINE helmet has a SMOOTH, GREY-green ( more grey than green ) FACTORY FINISH, which is 99% intact ( photo ). The helmet's left side has GOLD-FOIL on black, "stacked", Wehrmacht style eagle & swastika transfer, which is approximately 98% intact ( photo ). The right side of the helmet has the RED / WHITE / BLACK tricolor escutcheon-shaped decal, which is 97% intact ( photo ). The inside of the left side of the helmet skirt is die-stamped with helmet shell manufacturer's foundry code, "Q" ( "QUIST" ), and the shell size, "64" ( photo ). The interior of the rear of the helmet skirt is die-struck with a foundry "run-number", "0777" ( photo ). The interior of the dome of the helmet has a clearly visible, oval, 1939-dated "Wehrmacht Abgenommen" ink stamp ( photo ). The model 1931 helmet liner system consists of an ALUMINUM liner band and "D" bales ( photo ), and a BEAUTIFUL, still SOFT and SUPPLE, light pinkish-tan-colored CALFSKIN liner, with eight tongues, joined, at their apices, by a section of ORIGINAL, off-white, "nylon" drawstring ( photo ). The tip of one tongue is ink-stamped with size of the leather liner, "57". The "EARLY", extra high-quality, SOFT CALFSKIN liner is very slightly soiled in the brow area ( photo ), but grades in EXCELLENT overall condition. The ORIGINAL, 14 mm. wide, black leather chinstrap has an ALUMINUM buckle, and is in EXCELLENT + condition ( photo ). The chinstrap is maker-marked on the tip by a company ( illegible ) in Loburg, and dated "1939" ( photo ). The OVERALL condition of this VERY SCARCE, ALL-ORIGINAL, and "UNMOLESTED", double-decal, M35 KRIEGSMARINE helmet is EXCELLENT ++!!! This is absolutely, ONE-OF-THE-FINEST, ALL-ORIGINAL, "dble-dec" KM helmets that I've seen over the past 40 years of collecting! A super-scarce helmet, in TOP CONDITION!

SUPER-RARE, MODEL 1935, "QUIST- 64", DOUBLE DECAL, KRIEGSMARINE HELMET, IN FANTASTIC, TOP CONDITION!

$6,495.00  ORDER

Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet Right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet Left   Helmet Back   Helmet Top   Stamp detail  

(355)  VERY RARE, PRE-1943, WW II ITALIAN ARMY PARATROOPER HELMET.

This ITALIAN ( Fascist Regime, before 1943 ) World War II PARATROOPER helmet is a very scarce piece of WW II combat headgear. This standard Italian combat helmet has a smooth green painted finish on the exterior ( photo ), and the factory applied blue finish on the interior of the helmet ( photo ). ( This is "CORRECT ", as the WW II Italian paratroopers were initially part of the Italian Air Force until the late 1930's, and were transferred into the Italian Army early in WW II. Thus, this helmet's "original" paint finish was blue, and "PERIOD" repainted to Italian Army green ). The primary distinction of the WW II Italian paratrooper helmet, as contrasted to the "standard" WW II Italian Army helmet, is to be found in the liner and chinstrap. The WW II partrooper helmet has this UNIQUE, rubber-padded, and leather liner ( photo ), and the green leather covered front brow cushion, often jokingly referred to as the "sausage" ( photo ). Also, the UNIQUE, green leather chinstrap was used only on paratrooper helmets ( photo ). The front of the helmet appears to have had a stenciled, or hand-painted, emblem at one time, which was almost certainly "PERIOD" removed ( photo ). ( N.B. : Many, if not most, WW II Italian Army paratrooper helmets, before Fascist Italy's capitulation in 1943, were decorated with a stenciled emblem consisting of a vertical "Roman" short sword, beneath the House of Savoy crown, surrounded by a laurel leaf wreath. Following Mussolini's forced "abdication" as "IL DUCE", in 1943, those paratroopers who fled to northern Italy with their German allies, removed the old House of Savoy crest from the front of their helmets. Apparently, this particular Italian paratrooper chose to side with the "pro-Mussolini" paratroopers, the remaining "die-hard" Fascists, and the German forces who still occupied most of northern Italy ). There is one small tear in the brown leather sweatband ( photo ), but the overall condition of this very scarce helmet is "used", VERY GOOD ++, to low-EXCELLENT.

VERY RARE, PRE-1943, WW II ITALIAN ARMY PARATROOPER HELMET.

$1,650.00  ORDER

Helmet 3/4 Right   Helmet Right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet Left   Helmet Back   Helmet Top   Strap detail 1   Strap Detail 2   Clip Detail  

(340)  MODEL 1916, DOUBLE DECAL, LUFTWAFFE/SA STANDARTE "FELDHERRNHALLE" HELMET.

This is an Model 1916 Luftwaffe helmet which was reissued to the LUFTWAFFE/SA STANDARTE "FELDHERRNHALLE", following the "Sudeten Crisis" in 1938, when the six SA STANDARTE "FELDHERRNHALLE" Sturmbannen were absorbed into the Luftwaffe as an airborne regiment( photo ). Prior to 1938, the SA STANDARTE "FELDHERRNHALLE" wore brown helmets with a "Feldherrnhalle" monument shield-style transfer on the helmets' LEFT side, and a distinctive swastika escutcheon transfer on the RIGHT side. After 1938, the "Feldherrnhalle" units, which served as "honor guards" at important NSDAP monuments and buildings throughout the greater Reich, wore the "Feldherrnhalle" decal on their brown-painted helmets' RIGHT side (photo ), and a standard Luftwaffe style eagle & swastika decal on the LEFT side ( photo ), as is the configuration of this actual RARE, ORIGINAL surviving example. The lacquered "Feldherrnhalle" escutcheon is nearly 100% intact ( photo ), while the the Luftwaffe eagle & swastika transfer is about 98% present ( photo ). The exterior of the helmet is PERIOD (re)painted in an OLIVE-DRAB smooth finish, which is about 95% ( photo ), while the helmet's interior and "skirt" still has the "original" Luftwaffe BLUE-GRAY color ( photo ). The model 1916 helmet "shell" has the external ( air vent ) "lugs" protuding on each side ( photo ), and the bilateral internal chinstrap posts, or "lugs" ( photo ). The "PERIOD-up-graded" liner system consists of a model 1931 ALUMINUM liner band and bilateral "D-bales" ( photo ), with an age-darkened, brown leather liner with eight tongues, which are joined, at their apices, with a length of ORIGINAL, soiled, off-white, "nylon" drawstring ( photo ). There is an ORIGINAL, 10mm. wide, tan leather chinstrap, which is "RB" numbered on the tip ( photo ). The leather liner and the chinstrap show age and wear consistent with the helmet's periodicity, and grade as "FAIR to GOOD" in condition. The inside of the helmet "dome' and "skirt" show a moderate amount of ( OLD ) surface oxidation, but the OVERALL condition of the helmet "shell" itself is still "VERY GOOD PLUS".

*N.B. This ( post-1938 ) "Luftwaffe" version of the "SA Feldherrnhalle" helmet is considered by most advanced Third Reich helmet mavens to be even RARER than the "pre-1938" pattern..

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back   Helmet Brim Detail   

(331)  RARE, NAZI LUFTWAFFE "DROOP TAIL, EAR CUTOUT", DOUBLE-DECAL, CHILD'S PAPER MACHE HELMET; IN AMAZING, NEAR MINT CONDITION!

This amazingly well preserved example of a Third Reich LUFTWAFFE child's toy helmet is constructed of molded, dark gray, paper mache, in the design of a Model 1918, "ear cutout", or "telephone talker" helmet ( photo ), complete with bilateral external air vent "lugs" ( photo ). There is an early, "droop-tail" style, Luftwaffe eagle & swastika decal, or paper sticker, applied to the helmet's left side ( photo ), and a tri-color ( red, white, and black ) shield on the right side ( photo ). Both insignia are virtually 100% intact. The attention-to-detail of this approximately 1/3 scale child's "play helmet" is remarkable, as the Model 1931 style, black oilcloth liner has the usual eight perforated tongues and drawstring ( photo ), and is even complete with a functional chinstrap! ( photo ). The ORIGINAL, faux 1931 liner is somewhat "dusty", but is otherwise essentially in UNUSED, NEAR MINT condition ( photo ). Although the piece definitely shows 70+ years of natural "age", the OVERALL condition of this extremely rare version of a child's "play" helmet is EXCELLENT PLUS, and was probably "played-with" very little, if at all.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back   Helmet top   Helmet Chinstrap   Helmet Rim Detail

(276)  RARE, MODEL 1931 CZECH ARMY HELMET CONVERTED TO NAZI POLICE / LUFTSCHUTZ.

This unusual-design, model 1931, Czech Army helmet has the long "comb" / air vent on the top of the dome ( photo ). This particular helmet was most likely initially requisitioned for usage by the German Polizei, as there are bilateral ghost images, or faint outlines, of double decals which are visible beneath the green repainted finish ( photo ). These were probably Nazi police-style decals ( photo ). The original khaki painted finish can be seen in areas where the green paint has chipped off, most noticably on the top "comb" ( photo ). The front of the helmet has been decaled with a large, winged, "LUFTSCHUTZ" transfer ( photo ). The original Czech style leather liner, and wide leather chinstrap are present, and in EXCELLENT condition ( photo ). The overall condition of this very unusual example of German "conversion" of enemy ( sic Czech ) military equipment is "VERY GOOD++", to "low-EXCELLENT".

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back   Chinstrap

(277)  VERY RARE, ORIGINAL, M1940, NSKK HELMET.

This RARE, "NSKK" ( "National Sozialistisches Kraftfahr Korps", or "National Socialist Motor Transport Corps" ) model 1940 steel helmet is factory painted in "Luftwaffe blue", and retains approximately 80% of its original gray-blue factory finish ( photo ). The left side of the helmet has an orange-gold, metallic, "NSKK" decal, which is about 70% intact ( photo ). The interior of the left helmet "skirt" is die-stamped with the shell manufacturer's foundry-code, "ET" ( "Eisenhuttenwerke, Thale" ), and the helmet shell size, "64" ( photo ). The inside of the rear area of the helmet skirt is die-struck with a factory run-number, "939" ( photo ). The model 1931 liner system consists of a ZINC liner band, and a brown pigskin-leather liner, with eight separate tongues, which are tied together, at their apices, with a length of original, white "nylon" drawstring material ( photo ). The pigskin liner is somewhat darkened ( probably from a leather preservative, e.g. "Neatsfoot Oil" ), but is supple, and in EXCELLENT condition ( photo ). The original,16 mm. wide, unmarked, dark brown-leather chinstrap is complete, with a zinc buckle, and is in "GOOD++", to "VERY GOOD" condition ( photo ). The overall condition is "Used, VERY GOOD", with an "80%" decal. NOTE: Unfortunately, many, if not most, ORIGINAL, "NSKK" helmets have decals which are either missing sections, or badly worn, or otherwise "incomplete", perhaps due to poor quality manufacturing. Nonetheless, this is a completely original, and still highly-collectible, example of a VERY SCARCE Third Reich helmet!

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back  

(280)  RARE, COMPLETE, M1936, RUSSIAN HELMET CONVERTED TO NAZI "LUFTSCHUTZ" USAGE.

This RARE, COMPLETE, model 1936 Russian combat helmet was captured by the Germans sometime after June 22, 1941, and then reissued for wear by a member of their "LUFTSCHUTZ", or air raid protection, forces ( usually to their AAA, or "flak" gun crews ). The standard, model 1936, Soviet army helmet shell has the top air vent, with the "comb" ( photo ), and retains approximately 80% of its ORIGINAL, dark-gray, factory-painted, smooth finish ( photo ). The helmet shell itself is in excellent condition, and has no dents, dings, splits, or battle damage ( photo ). The front of the helmet has a large, SILVER FOIL, Nazi "LUFTSCHUTZ" decal, which is 98% intact ( photo ). The original-issue Russian liner system is COMPLETE, and intact, and consists of a corrugated-tin liner band ( photo ), with a canvas, and black ( "ersatz" ) leather, liner and headband ( photo ). The original chinstrap is made of a khaki-colored "webbing", and riveted to the bilateral liner "D" rings ( photo ). The overall condition of this very scarce, and unusual, WW II "German" helmet is "Used, VERY GOOD ++".

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back  

(65)  ULTRA-RARE, MODEL 42, NAZI KRIEGSMARINE "MEDIC'S" HELMET, W/ RED CROSS "DECALS".

This model 1942, KRIEGSMARINE, steel helmet was worn by a Nazi navy "medic", or "medical orderly" ("SANITATSMATROSE" ), as identified by THREE, 85 mm. ( 3.25 in. ) diameter, ( round ) white / red cross "DECALS", applied to the helmet's front, and sides!! ( photo ). The helmet's left side has an ( UNMISTAKABLY! ) "GOLD" Wehrmachts- adler decal ( NOT a "tarnished" Heer decal ), which is approximately 80% intact, and partially covered, on its trailing edge, by the left sided "red cross" decal ( photo ). The three "red cross" DECALS display varying degrees of MINOR "chipping", and ( uniform ) "age" ( photo[s] ). The ORIGINAL, factory-applied, helmet painted finish is a slightly "different" shade, or "hue", from the usual "feldgrau" ( gray-green ) color, in that it seems to be somewhat "more-GRAY", if you will; and is approximately 75% intact ( photo ). The inside rear helmet "skirt" is die-stamped with the helmet "shell" manufacturer's foundry-code, "bko", the "shell" size, "64", and a factory "run" number, "3855" ( photo ). The original, "Wehrmacht-abgenommen", or Heer/ Kriegsmarine "acceptance", OVAL ink stamp, is still visible, although somewhat "blurred", inside the helmet crown ( photo ). The helmet liner system is the model 1931 type; consisting of a zinc liner band, and a light-tan, PIGSKIN-leather, liner, with eight seperate tongues, tied together, at their apices, with a length of ( very soiled ), ORIGINAL, white "nylon" cord "drawstring" ( photo ). The tip of one of the leather liner tongues is factory ink-stamped with the liner's size, "56" ( photo ). The "pigskin" liner is VERY DRY, "dirty", and somewhat "stiff", but is, nonetheless, complete and "intact"; and still grades as "GOOD + +", in overall condition. The original, 16 mm. wide, unmarked, black-leather chinstrap, is full-length, with a zinc buckle, and is also very dry, and "stiff" ( photo ). The OVERALL condition of the helmet exterior is a solid "VERY GOOD PLUS".

NOTE: I strongly believe that the three "red cross" DECALS are "PERIOD", and were applied to this particular, ALL-ORIGINAL, M42, Nazi Kriegsmarine helmet, well-before May 8, 1945. However, having said that, I am not purporting that these period DECALS, or "transfers", are "helmet" decals, per se. Such decals could have also been used by the Kriegsmarine, or KM "coastal artillery" medical personnel, to identify their medical, or emergency equipment, such as "first aid" cases, or many other possible items of their gear.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back   Strap detail

(72)   GERMAN WW I, M16, CAMOUFLAGE PAINTED HELMET WITH COMPLETE, ORIGINAL LINER.

This model 1916, WW I German helmet is PERIOD camouflage-painted in a variation of the so-called "tortoise-shell", or "stained-glass", camouflage paint scheme. The original gray-green, or "feldgrau" color, factory-applied paint has been augmented by hand painted "patches" of BLACK paint, which are conjoined by the customary "finger-width", BLACK lines, producing a so-called "one-color" camouflage paint scheme ( photo ). The regulation model 1916 helmet shell is unmarked, but has the bilateral, "single-stage", ventilation / armored-brow-plate, "lugs"; which are usually found on the size "64" helmet shell ( photo ). The inside of the "skirt" has bilateral, model 1891, chinstrap attachment "lugs" ( photo ). The ORIGINAL, and COMPLETE, helmet liner system consists of a 3 mm. thick, carriage leather, liner band, and three, seperate, double tongue, brown leather, "cushioned" pads ( photo ). The liner system grades VERY GOOD PLUS, in overall condition, although there is no chinstrap present. The helmet's exterior has a fair amount of brown "surface rust", but the "camo" paint colors, alhough "subdued" with age, are still strong, and nearly 100% intact ( photo ). There is NO battle damage, and the exterior condition still grades "GOOD ++".

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back  

(79)  ULTRA-RARE, MODEL 1916, SS "VT" HELMET

This EXTREMELY-RARE, ORIGINAL, SS "VT", or "VERFUGUNGSTRUPPE", helmet is a model 1916, WW I style, helmet "shell", which was PERIOD re-painted, re-linered, and "recycled", as it were, for issue to the SS "VERFUGUNGSTRUPPE", which was to later evolve into the WAFFEN-SS, in 1939. Soldiers of the "SS-VT" received much more intensive and traditional, military-style training than their "SS-brethern", in the ALLGEMEINE-SS, or SS "Bereitschaften" detachments. Their "Feldgrau" uniforms were more in keeping with the traditional German "Wehrmacht", or HEER uniform, in contrast to the ALL-BLACK uniform of the "PARTEI-SS", or "ALLGEMEINE-SS". As was also true for the ALLGEMEINE-SS, this predecessor to the Waffen-SS received little in the way of military "appropriations" from the Third Reich's "military budget", in the years from 1935 to 1939. As a result, much of the EARLY SS equipment, and military "hardware" was obtained from "recycled" WW I-era stocks. Their steel helmets were, more often than not, "reissued", and "re-decaled" model 1916, 1917, or 1918, WW I era helmets. This ORIGINAL, "SS-VT" helmet is a model 1916 design, which has been repainted in the EARLY ( "pale-gray-green" ) FELDGRAU color,of which approximately 80% is still present on the helmet ( Photo ). The paint does show its NATURAL age, and, although "scratched", and "worn" in spots, still grades a strong "VERY GOOD", in overall condition ( Photo ). The helmet's right side has a so-called "first pattern", SILVER FOIL, SS runics decal, which is 95% intact, and has "nestled-in" to the helmet paint with 65 plus years of NATURAL AGE ( Photo ). The helmet's left side has the NSDAP "party-shield" decal, which is 98% intact, with NATURAL "fading" of the red area, and slight "yellowing" of the white circle portion ( Photo ). The helmet "shell" has a "single-step" style air vent "lug", above the decals on both sides ( Photo ). The inside of the helmet "skirt" has a model 1891, raised, "chinstrap-retainer-lug", protruding from each side ( Photos ). The inside of the left helmet "skirt" is die-struck with the helmet "shell" size, "66" ( see pic ), but the "shell" manufacturer's "foundry-code", normally present in juxtaposition to the "shell" size, is not detectable. There is OLD rust present inside the "dome" of the helmet, probably resulting from standing water, or accumulated condensation there ( Photo ). The helmet liner system is the so-called "model 1929" type, consisting of a steel liner band ( which has literally "rusted into" the helmet interior ), and a three-pad, brown-leather liner. Each leather liner pad has two tongues, and all ( six ) tongues are tied together, at their apices, by a length of original, white, "nylon"-cord drawstring ( Photo ). All three of the brown-leather, liner pads still have their original small "pillows", tied in their respective, reverse-side, "compartments". The leather pads, themselves, are still fairly soft, and supple, and are in very good PLUS condition. The helmet "shell", its "ORIGINAL" ( period repainted ) finish, and the "percntage" of decals remaining, and the M29 liner condition; all combine to make this a VERY FINE example of an "EARLY" ( circa 1936- 1939 ), RARE and AUTHENTIC, "SS-VT" helmet!! In point of fact, an ORIGINAL, "SS-VT" helmet is FAR RARER than the black, "ALLGEMEINE-SS" helmet.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left  

(80)  RARE, MINT "AUSTRIAN-STYLE", MODEL "1920", TRANSITIONAL, SINGLE-DECAL HEER HELMET, WITH INTERIOR "BRACKETS" FOR BACKPACK.

This VERY RARE, and UNUSUAL, single-decal HEER, "Transitional-style", helmet was produced in the NINETEEN TWENTIES, in the design of a model 1917, AUSTRIAN steel helmet, but with several design changes, the most notable, and UNIQUE feature being the addition, at the foundry, to both sides of the helmet "skirt", of a "welded-on bracket", for the purpose of attaching the helmet to the AUSTRIAN ARMY backpack ( Photos of "brackets" ). This POST-WW I, "modified" version of the "model 1917" Austrian-style, "transitional" helmet design is sometimes euphemistically referred to as the "model 1920(+)". Externally, the model 1917, "Austrian-style" helmet "shell" design is faithfully replicated, including the long helmet "skirt", the location of the rivet heads, and the bilateral, "single-step", air vent "lugs" ( Photo ). The helmet "shell", produced sometime in the 1920's, has been PERIOD ( circa 1942-1944 ), completely ( factory ) refinished in a rough-textured, "matte" dark gray paint; which is virtually 100% intact, and, except for a few light "scuff-marks", is nearly "MINT" ( Photo ). The left side of the helmet has a period-applied, black, and SILVER FOIL,"Wehrmachtsadler" decal, which is "tilted" about 15-20 degrees, about 95% "intact", and has a carefully-applied coat of protective lacquer, which has age-matured to a "golden-yellow" hue, almost causing the decal to be easily mistaken for a true GOLD FOIL Wehrmachtsadler, or "Kriegsmarine" decal ( Photo ). The ORIGINAL, interior helmet paint is also close to "MINT" ( Photo ). There is a model 1917, ( "unused" ) chinstrap retainer "D" ring, riveted-on to the inside of the helmet "skirt", bilaterally, and positioned just above the special "brackets", welded to the inside of the "skirt", just above the folded-edge, "skirt" rim, on each side ( Photo ). The helmet interior is completely "sterile"; having NO identifiable maker's marks, "foundry-code", or "shell" size stamping; as is the case with ALL known examples of this VERY RARE, variation helmet. The "updated" helmet liner system is the model 1931 type; consisting of a zinc liner band, and a BEAUTIFUL, early-quality, "BLONDE" sheepskin-leather liner, with eight "perforated" tongues, which are tied together, at their apices, with a length of ORIGINAL, PERIOD, white, "nylon"-cord drawstring ( Photo ). One of the leather tongues is factory ink-stamped with the liner's size, "58" ( Photo ). The condition of the beautiful M31 liner is "UNUSED, NEAR MINT", and the helmet, in its entirety, is in EXCELLENT-PLUS, to NEAR MINT condition! This UNIQUE, and RARE "transitional" helmet variation was issued, late in the war, to "Volkssturm" units, and fanatical Hitler Youth detachments, and, as a result, is hard-to-find in any "collectible" condition, and certainly even harder to find in the nearly "MINT" condition of this fine example.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left  

(83)  M40, "SINGLE-DECAL", LUFTWAFFE HELMET WITH "FULL" CHICKEN-WIRE CAMOUFLAGE.

This model 1940, "single-decal", LUFTWAFFE combat helmet has the "FULL", or complete, style of PERIOD-coverage with chicken-coup wire ( see pic ). The white LUFTWAFFE "flying eagle" decal is approximately 60% intact, and visible beneath the chicken-wire "net" ( Photo ). The original, rough- textured, dark-gray, factory finish is still present under the wire "net", and is about 90% intact, with only isolated spots of SURFACE rust, which has "bled" into the painted steel, from being in contact with the rusted areas of the wire netting ( Photos ). The helmet "shell's" interior factory finish is in EXCELLENT condition; and, in fact, the full, oval, Wehrmacht, "Bescahaffungsamt Abgenommen" ( or Heer/Marine official "acceptance" ) ink-stamp is still visible, inside the helmet dome ( Photo ). The inside of the left helmet "skirt" is die-struck with the helmet "shell" manufacturer's "foundry-code", "ET" ( "Eisenhuttenwerke,Thale" ), and the helmet "shell" size, "64" ( Photo ). The inside of the rear area of the "skirt" is stamped with a factory "run" number, "1381" ( Photo ). The helmet liner system is the M31 type, consisting of a zinc liner band, and a brown leather liner, with eight "perforated" tongues, which are secured, at their apices, with a length of original, soiled, "nylon"-cord drawstring ( Photo ). One tongue is "torn", and the leather is very DRY, but the liner is intact, and "original" to THIS HELMET, and would still grade as GOOD PLUS condition, overall. The 12 mm. wide, brown leather chinstrap is present, on both sides, and "full-length"; and is maker-marked, on the tip, with the name of a company ( illegible ) located in the city of "Neu-Ulm", and dated, "1941" ( Photo ). This is a "CLASSIC" example of the "FULL" style CHICKEN-WIRE, camouflage net, on a "VERY GOOD PLUS" condition, single-decal, Luftwaffe, Model 1940 helmet, which is completely original, "PERIOD", and UNALTERED.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left  

(86)  MODEL 1940, "SINGLE-DECAL" LUFTWAFFE GROUND FORCES HELMET; WITH "BASKET-STYLE" CHICKEN-WIRE.

This model 1940, LUFTWAFFE "ground forces" helmet has the "basket-style", CHICKEN WIRE attached to the helmet "shell" by three heavy-guage wires, which extend down from a circumferential, heavy-guage wire, around the lower edge of the "basket", and "hooked" onto the helmet's rolled rim ( Photo ). ALL of this PERIOD-attached wire is TIGHTLY "set-in-place", and is literally rusted onto the helmet body in some places ( Photo ). A faint outline, or "ghost" image, of a Luftwaffe decal can be seen on the left side of the helmet, just below the air vent ( Photo ). The original helmet factory finish is almost entirely replaced with ( old ) brown SURFACE oxidation ( Photo ). The interior of the rear helmet "skirt" is die-struck with a factory "run" number, which is difficult to make out, but appears to be "2814" ( Photo ). The helmet liner system consists of a zinc liner band, and an eight tongue leather liner, which is "DRY", and has some tears, and "scortched" areas ( Photo ). The eight leather tongues are still tied together, at their apices, with a length of original, soiled, "nylon"-cord drawstring ( Photo ). The liner, however, still grades in FAIR condition overall. The original, 12 mm. wide, black leather chinstrap has an aluminum buckle, and, although aged and worn, is still "full length" ( Photo ). This helmet is a "vet-bring-back" piece, and is "uncleaned", and UNALTERED, including the PERIOD-applied, "basket"-style, CHICKEN WIRE! Examples of ( unquestionably ) "period-applied" wire-covered helmets are fast-becoming almost impossible to find, and this is a helmet that one doesn't have to wonder if the wire-covering is 100% contemporary.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left  

(91)  MODEL 1916, SINGLE-DECAL, "TRANSITIONAL" HEER HELMET, WITH ORIGINAL, RED/YELLOW FABRIC WAR GAMES "UMPIRE'S" BAND.

This model 1916, German army helmet has a BLACK, and SILVER FOIL, "Wehrmachtsadler" decal on the left side, which is 95% intact ( Photo ), and is partially covered by the 35 mm. wide, model 1932, reversible, red/yellow cloth "umpire's", or war games' "Kampfrichter's", band ( Photo ); which is attached to the helmet body with three metal clips ( Photo ). The "M16" helmet has the "two-stage" external lugs ( Photo ), and the inside of both sides of the helmet "skirt" has a single "lug", for attachment of the original, WW I style, leather chinstrap ( Photo ). The inside of the left helmet "skirt" is die-stamped with the "shell" maufacturer's "foundry-code", "ET" ( "Eisenhutte, Thale" ), and the "shell" size, "64" ( Photo ). The standard WW I era "three-pad" leather liner has been ( period ) replaced with a model 1931, tan leather liner, with eight, perforated, tongues, and is attached to a zinc liner band ( Photo ). One of the tongues is ink- stamped with the liner's size, "57" ( Photo ). The liner also has a name, "Jansohn", written in ink ( Photo ), and " ? A.A." ( Photo ). The original, 12 mm. wide, black leather chinstrap is still with the helmet, and is maker-marked on the tip, "G. SINGER, KLATTAU", and dated 1942 ( Photo ). The rear of the "umpire's" cloth band has a WW II German 2nd class Iron Cross ribbon bar pinned to it ( Photo ); most likely put there by the WW II US Army veteran who "liberated" the helmet. ( NOTE: In keeping with my policy of NOT "altering" pieces, especially "veteran-acquired" war souvenirs, I have left it in place ). The condition of the "umpire's" cloth band is VERY GOOD, and the M16 helmet, and liner system, would grade just about the same, overall.

Helmet front   Helmet 3/4 right   Helmet 3/4 left   Helmet back

(109)  ABSOLUTELY "ONE-OF-A-KIND", AUSTRIAN SS ( "TYROL" DIST.) LIGHTWEIGHT STEEL HELMET

This is a totally UNIQUE, all original, "AUSTRIAN" SS helmet, from the Tyrolean region, most likely used by one the very earliest ALLGEMEINE SS formations, which were strictly "illegal" ( but usually "tolerated" by the Austrian government ) prior to the that country's "annexation" ( "Anschluss" ) into the Greater German Reich, in March, 1938, becoming overnight "Ostmark", instead of "Oesterreich". Few details concerning the history of these "early" ( 1923-1938 ), legally "banned" ALLGEMEINE SS units is known, even today. What is known for sure is that they existed in virtually every corner of Austria, and had their own, often distinctive, SS uniforms, which they usually didn't wear within the borders of Austria. Their SS gear was, however, proudly worn when these units travelled to meetings IN GERMANY proper, and NSDAP rallies, such as the annual "Reichsparteitag" in Nuremburg. This "one-of-a-kind" AUSTRIAN SS helmet probably dates to the period 1933-34, to 1938, and, clearly was from an SS formation in the southern part of Austria; a region known as the Tyrol ( "Tirol" in German ). The helmet itself is a fairly RARE pattern of German helmet in its own right, known as the "Lightweight, M16, 'AUSTRIAN-STYLE' helmet". Helmets of this "pattern designation" ( vide supra ) were produced, IN GERMANY, not Austria, in the first two or three years of the Third Reich ( 1933- 1936 ) and were used to make the very earliest police ( such as "Landespolizei Goring" ) helmets, or "RLB" helmets. The helmet is constructed of a lightweight steel alloy, and is factory painted in a light green "satin" finish. The "bill", or front visor is unusually long, while the helmet "skirt" is rather short ( Photo ); giving this pattern its very distinctive Silhouette. There is a circular, "screened" air vent, above the decals, on each side of the helmet ( Photo ). The liner system appears to be the standard M18 type, with three, seperate leather "pads", each with two tongues containing nickle grommets ( Photo ). The liner band is made of a thick leather, and secured by three domed rivets ( Photo ). The 16 mm. wide, pebbled black leather chinstrap is the "one piece" design, with two black enameled, metal buckles, and riveted on ( Photo ). The right side of the helmet bears a UNIQUE SS insigne, consisting of a black, shield shaped decal, with two silver foil SS runes and a thin silver border ( Photo ), which is about 90% intact. This transfer "resembles" the FIRST pattern "Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler" SS helmet decal, but definitely is a totally different decal; which I have not personally seen before. The helmet's left side has an also totally UNIQUE, large, white, shield-shaped decal, trimmed in red, with a stylized red eagle, with a white swastika on its chest, and "TIROL" in red letters beneath it ( Photo ). This transfer is approximately 95% intact. This pair of decals is truly amazing in terms of their heretofore unknown existence, and historical context, vis-a-vis the history of the ALLGEMEINE SS and its AUSTRIAN "connection"; years before that country was absorbed into the so-called "Greater German Reich". Another interesting, and almost inexplicable, feature of this astounding helmet is the unusual, hand-painted, alternating black and silver "shark's teeth" decoration, which was added entirely around the lower portion of the helmet skirt! This definitely appears to have been done in the period, but I don't know its significance. Although the exact origins and significance of this helmet seem arcane, and almost "mysterious", at this moment, this is a 100% AUTHENTIC, PERIOD ( "AUSTRIAN" ) SS helmet!! NOTE: There is some indecypherable ( to me anyway ) writing ( possibly the SS man's name, or unit ) visible on one the leather helmet pads ( Photo ).

Helmet front   Helmet right   Helmet left   Helmet back   Helmet 3qtr view 1   Helmet 3qtr view 2  
Helmet rim detail 1   Helmet rim detail 2

(117)  FANTASTIC, NEAR MINT, VERY RARE HEER "DD", OFFICER'S ALUMINUM PARADE HELMET

This UNIQUE, ultra-lightweight ( aluminum ) version of the familiar Third Reich era "Heer", or German army helmet, was designed and produced exclusively for wear by Wehrmacht OFFICERS only when on parade duty, and/or while wearing the officer's "parade-dress" uniform and is consequently an EXTREMELY RARE helmet, and almost impossible to find in the "near MINT" condition of this surviving example. This fine specimen is complete with the appropriate, more deluxe, soft calfskin leather liner, with nine tongues, fastened together at the apex with the original white cord drawstring ( Photo ). The liner is ink-stamped with its unusually large size ("61") ( Photo ). The ( wider ) black leather, "easy-release", chinstrap is also unique to this helmet's design. The helmet has virtually 100% of its original factory-painted finish, which is a very distinctive MATTE "feldgrau", or gray-green ( Photo ). Both Heer pattern decals are virtually 100% with the exception of a few very superficial scratches on the red/white/black national shield decal ( Photo ). The "Wehrmacht-adler" ( army eagle ) decal is perfect ( Photo ). The overall condition is excellent PLUS, to almost MINT. ( There are a couple of very tiny spots of missing paint, that prevent this RARE helmet from being stone-mint ).

Helmet   Helmet right   Helmet left   Helmet clip  

(118)  ULTRA RARE, 1ST PATTERN, DOUBLE DECAL, HEER OFFICER'S ALUMINUM PARADE HELMET

This ultra leightweight, all ALUMINUM, double decal, German army parade helmet was designed and produced for wear by Heer OFFICERS exclusively, and, then only when on "parade duty", or on occasions when the "parade dress" uniform was authorized for wear. The standard German combat helmet liner has been replaced with a "deluxe", soft calfskin liner with nine tongues, and a soft, luxurious, leather-covered "cushion" inside the dome ( Photo ). This liner was exclusive to this rare OFFICER'S helmet. The calfskin liner is ink-stamped with the size ("58") ( Photo ). The wider than usual, soft tan leather chinstrap is the "quick-release" design, also indiginous to this early type OFFICER'S parade helmet ( Photo ). The all aluminum helmet body is a somewhat sylized version of the model 1916-1918 German army helmet, but still incorporating into the design the distinctive WWI period ( machine-gunner's face shield attachment ) "horns", or lugs, on each side of the helmet ( Photo ). Both Heer pattern decals are present, and virtually 100% imagesintact ( Photo ). The body is factory spray-painted in a SEMI-GLOSS "feldgrau" ( gray-green color ), and the exterior finish is nearly PERFECT, except for a few TINY spots of paint chipping on the outside rim ( Photo ). This EARLY, or "first pattern" Heer OFFICER'S parade helmet ( with the two faux "horns" ) is even RARER than the also-very-scarce, later, "M35" model. The overall condition of the helmet body is near MINT. The rear interior portion of the liner ( which is hidden from view by the camera lens ) and the leather-covered, padded "cushion" in the dome, show some evidence of "chewing" damage from some hungry mice, but this is very difficult to even find without pulling the leather tongues down.

Helmet back   Helmet right   Helmet left   Helmet eagle   Helmet Natl shield

(120)  ORIGINAL WAFFEN SS (SECOND PATTERN) REVERSIBLE CAMOUFLAGE HELMET COVER

 This 2nd pattern Waffen SS camouflage cloth helmet cover was acquired recently from the USA Medical Corps Captain (MD) who brought it home in 1945, attached to a double decal M35 SS steel helmet. It is factory made out of a heavy cotton twill, and is reversible (spring/summer and autumn), and is the so-called "2nd pattern" (with the factory sewn foliage strips on both sides). All the factory sewn seams are double machine stitched, and the attachment clips, and rockers, are made out of aluminum, and the steel springs are attached to the cloth cover itself with steel rivets (Photo). The Arabic numeral "5" (camo "muster" pattern #5) was incorporated into the "autumn" camo pattern; from the camouflage cloth "bolt" at the time of it's manufacture (Photo). (This occurred fairly often in ALL Waffen SS camouflage equipment, including pullover smocks, shelter quarters, mittens, helmet covers, etc., etc.). This particular piece has been washed at some time or another (Probably by the good doctor's wife!), and is somewhat "faded" as a result, but nothing fluoresces, or "glows", under UV ("black light") examination. This actual cover came off of a size 66 SS, "DD" M35 helmet, and was probably just a little bit too small for that particular helmet, as there are some OLD fabric tears present at the clip attachment locations (Photo). However, that being said, this ORIGINAL Waffen SS helmet cover is nonetheless EXCEEDINGLY RARE, almost to the point of non-existence. REAL examples are rarely offered for sale at any price!!! There are probably less than 50 to 100 original examples known to exist in museums and private collections worldwide!! I, personally, have seen  less than a dozen REAL SS covers over the last 35 years! This veteran acquired example is 100% ORIGINAL, both by it's construction features, AND, it's provenance.

$3495.00  ORDER

photo1 photo2 photo3 photo4 photo5