Germany, Luftwaffe. A Rare Fallschirmjäger M38 Steel Helmet, Single Decal Version, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M38 für Fallschirmjäger mit Emblem). A rare and battle-worn Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger M38 steel helmet, constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell which retains the majority of its original apple green paint. Four rivets are distributed around the exterior of the shell to secure the interior fixtures firmly in place. Situated below the left side rivet is a striking decal consisting of a silver-grey Luftwaffe eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, with details and feathering highlighted in black, measuring 70 mm (w) x 38 mm (h). The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge throughout the skirt. An aluminum ring surrounds the interior, and is firmly held in position by the shell rivets. Seven black foam pads emanate from a bed of identical construction set into the crown to provide a cushion which supports a partially intact brown leather liner, itself perforated with numerous ventilation holes. Visible on the liner are black ink stamps indicating that the helmet has a shell size of “66”, with an illegible liner size possibly reading “55”. Also stamped onto the skirt is a maker’s mark of “ET66”, indicating that the helmet was manufactured by the noted helmet firm of Eisenhüttenwerke, Thale, with a shell size of 66 (matching the liner) and a code of “5039”. It measures approximately 21 cm (w) x 24.5 cm (h) x 12.5 cm (h) overall. Issues consistent with age and field wear are evidence, and include moderate scratching of the exterior base, with extensive deterioration of the liner (including soiling possibly indicating injuries to the wearer), and the loss of the chinstrap. A scarce and untouched example demonstrating signs of field use, this desirable example remains in a better than very fine condition.