Germany, Heer. An M40 Stahlhelm, by F.W. Quist

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Heer M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the majority of its original apple-green paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is also flanked on each side by an integral ventilation hole stamped directly into the shell. Completing the exterior features is a crimped rim, providing a smooth edge throughout the bottom of the skirt. A non-magnetic metal ring surrounds the interior of the crown, secured in position with the shell rivets, and accommodates a brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and additional eyelets through which is looped an original drawstring. Magnetic metal loops descend from the sides of the ring for the inclusion of a drawstring which has been lost to time. Stamped onto the skirt is a maker’s code of “Q64”, indicating manufacture by F.W. Quist, Esslingen, with a shell size of 64, situated above an illegible heat code. An additional illegible handwritten owner’s name in cursive script is visible on the right side of the skirt. The helmet measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 28.5 cm (l) x 15.5 cm (h) and demonstrates moderate loss of paint throughout the shell, resulting in some minor surface oxidation. It remains in a very fine condition.