Germany, Luftwaffe. An M40 Stahlhelm, by Quist

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Luftwaffe M40 single-decal steel helmet, constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel, with the exterior retaining most of its original dark grey paint. The left side of the shell retains a fully-intact decal consisting of a white Luftwaffe eagle with feathering and details highlighted in black.. 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 alloy 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 a replacement drawstring. Also attached to the ring are dual aluminum loops securing in place a two-piece blackened leather chinstrap, one side of which is perforated with nine eyelets for an adjustable fit. Stamped onto the right side of the shell is a maker’s code of “Q66”, indicating manufacture by Quist, Esslingen, with a shell size of 66, while a heating lot code of “DN259” is stamped onto the back of the skirt. The Stahlhelm measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 28.5 cm (l) x 13.5 cm (h). Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some scratching and loss of paint to the exterior material fatigue and soiling of the interior liner, and additional wear to the chinstrap which was repaired with staples. It remains in a better than very fine condition.