Germany, Kriegsmarine. An M40 Stahlhelm, Named and Single Decal Version, by Sächsische Emaillier und Stanzwerke

(Kriegsmarine Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Kriegsmarine M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the majority of its original apple-green paint, indicating early wartime issue. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference of the shell for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is flanked on each side by integral ventilation holes. Situated just below the left vent is a decal consisting of a black shield bearing a golden-yellow Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, measuring 32 mm (w) x 38 mm (h). The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge throughout the skirt. An aluminum ring surrounds the interior of the crown, fixed in place with the shell rivets, and retains an original brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and additional eyelets which retain a period drawstring. Two magnetic metal loops descend from the sides of the ring for the inclusion of a chinstrap which has been lost to time. Stamped onto the right side is a partially-legible code beginning with “SE”, indicating manufacture by Sächsische Emaillier und Stanzwerke, while an illegible heat coat is stamped onto the back of the skirt. The liner is stamped with a size mark of “57”, while a handwritten owner’s name of “ZIEGLER” is also visible on the right side of the liner. The helmet measures approximately 23.5 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 16 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and field wear are evident, and include some scratching to the shell paint, the loss of approximately half of the decal, and minor fatigue of the interior liner, all in addition to the missing chinstrap. This early-war Kriegsmarine helmet remains in a better than very fine condition.