Germany, Ordnungspolizei. An M40 Stahlhelm, Double Decal and Owner-Attributed Example, by F.W. Quist

(Ordnungspolizei Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Ordnungspolizei M40 Stahlhelm, constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell which retains much of its original dark field-grey paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference, while the helmet is additionally flanked by two integral ventilation holes. Decals are situated directly beneath the former, each measuring 35 mm x 40 mm (h). The right side decal consists of a red shield defaced by a circular white disc, in turn bearing a black mobile swastika, while the left side decal consists of a black shield bearing a silvered Ordnungspolizei insignia in the form of an oval oak leaf wreath overlaid by a German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika. The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge along the skirt. A metal ring fully surrounds the interior, secured in place with the shell rivets, and accommodates a brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet through which is looped a drawstring. Two magnetic metal loops also descend from the ring for the inclusion of a chinstrap which has been lost to time. Stamped onto the left of the skirt is a mark of “Q66”, indicating manufacture by F.W. Quist, Esslingen, and a shell size of 66. The back of the skirt is stamped with a heat code of “N225”, situated directly below a hand-painted owner’s name of “WIRKES”. Measuring approximately 24 cm (w) x 29 cm (l) x 13.5 cm (h), it demonstrates issues consistent with age and field use, include moderate scratching and loss of paint throughout the exterior of the shell, resulting in surface oxidation, material fatigue of the liner (in addition to the missing chinstrap), and some loosening of the rivets securing the liner in place. An unmodified example demonstrating all of the hallmarks of wartime use, the helmet remains in a better than very fine condition.