Germany, Luftwaffe. An M40 Stahlhelm, Refurbished Example by F.W. Quist

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M40). A Luftwaffe M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the majority of a restored textured blue-grey paint scheme. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference of the shell for the accommodation of the liner pins, while the crown is flanked by integral ventilation holes. The edge of the skirt is fully crimped for a smooth rim. Two metal rings are affixed to the interior, one of which is a replacement and shows post-war rivets. Two metal loops flank the ring for the addition of a chinstrap which has been lost to time. Stamped onto the back of the skirt is a code of “Q62”, indicating manufacture by F.W. Quist, Esslingen, above an illegible heat code. Otherwise unmarked, the helmet measures approximately 22 cm (w) x 27 cm (l) x 15 cm (h). In addition to the noted issues and modifications, the helmet is missing its interior liner and shows some scratching to the paint. This interesting example, produced by a manufacturer noted to have continued to produce helmets in M40 configuration following the introduction of the simplified M42 variant, remains in a refurbished and very fine condition.