Slovakia, First Republic. A Slovak Eastern Front Volunteer M34 Steel Helmet

A well-preserved Slovakian M32 steel helmet, constructed of an olive-drab painted magnetic metal shell. The lower edge of the exterior is painted with a blue stripe, while the helmet is also flanked on each side by hand-painted white Slovak-style Patriarchal Crosses. Unusually, affixed to the peak are two German-manufactured rank pips, constructed of silvered bronze, representing a higher rank. Seven magnetic metal rives are distributed around the lower quarter of the shell, securing in place the interior features. The former consists of five grey-blue padded fingers, each perforated at the top with dual eyelets. A period original drawstring is looped through the eyelets, affording a comfortable fit to the wearer. The remaining two rivets accommodate a two-piece brown leather chinstrap, fastened together with a functional magnetic metal buckle meeting six eyelets. The helmet is fully unmarked and measures 235 mm (w) x 275 mm (l) x 140 mm (h). Loss of paint consistent with age and use is evident, in addition to some fatigue of the leather features. The helmet is in an overall better than very fine condition.