Germany, Heer. An M40 Double-Decal Steel Helmet, Owner-Attributed, By F.w. Quist

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Heer M40 double-decal steel helmet, constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel, with the exterior retaining most of its original apple-green (Apfelgrün) paint. The helmet is flanked on each side by original decals, with the right consisting of a shield bearing a Wehrmacht tricolour, measuring 34 mm (w) x 42 mm (h), and the left featuring a black shield overlaid by a Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, similarly measuring 34 mm (w) x 42 mm (h). Three rivets are distributed around the outer shell, with two located at the frontal sides and one at the back, securing in place the interior features. Additionally, the helmet is flanked on each side by integral ventilation holes. The rim of the helmet is fully crimped, allowing for a smooth edge. Secured to the interior with the aforementioned rivets is a fitted aluminum ring from which emanates a brown leather liner, completing in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes, as well as a top hole for the accommodation of an intact drawstring. Also attached to the ring are dual aluminum loops, previously securing in place a chinstrap which has been lost to time. Stamped onto the interior of the shell is a mark of “Q62”, indicating manufacture by the firm of F.W. Quist, Esslingen, and a shell size of 62, with an additional code of “744”. Stamped onto one of the leather fingers is a liner size of “55”. Painted onto the back of the shell is a number “43”, while a handwritten owner’s name of “A. SCHRADER” etched onto the left side. The helmet measures 230 mm (w) x 275 mm (l) x 140 mm (h). In addition to the missing chinstrap, some issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include the loss of most of the right decal, sporadic loss of shell paint, and minor wear of the liner. The helmet is in an overall better than very fine condition.

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