Germany, Ordnungspolizei. A Mint M40 Stahlhelm, Double Decal Version, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale

(Ordnungspolizei Stahlhelm M40). An exceptionally well-preserved Ordnungspolizei M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains virtually all of its original textured police-green paint scheme. Three rivets are distributed around the circumference of the shell for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the shell is also flanked by dual integral ventilation holes. Decals are situated below each vent, with the left side consisting of a black shield bearing a silver-grey Ordnungspolizei insignia, measuring 34 mm (w) x 40 mm (h), and the right side consisting of a red shield bearing a black mobile swastika within a white disc, similarly measuring 34 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge throughout the skirt. A metal ring surrounds the interior, fixed in position with the shell rivets, and retains an original light brown leather liner which culminates in nine fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet through which is looped an original drawstring. Magnetic metal loops descend from the sides of the helmet and retain an original blackened leather chinstrap, fastening closed with a functional magnetic metal buckle. Stamped onto the left side of the skirt is a code of “ET68”, indicating manufacture by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale, with a shell size of 68. Stamped onto the back of the shell is a heat code of “1041”, while the interior also retains a fully-legible dome stamp. The helmet measures approximately 24 cm (w) x 30 cm (l) x 16 cm (h). Minor and age-appropriate fatigue is visible to the leather fixtures, but the helmet demonstrates no other damage or wear. This striking example remains in a near mint condition.