Germany, Heer. A Heer M40 Single-Decal Steel Helmet By Eisenhüttenwerk Thale

(Heer M1940 Stahlhelm). Constructed of magnetic metal with standard dark green exterior paint, this is a very well-preserved Heer M40 steel helmet. The left side of the helmet bears a decal consisting of a silver Heer-style eagle clutching a mobile swastika on a black ackground, measuring 33 mm (w) x 39 mm (h). It is flanked on each side by a ventilation hole with a slightly raised edge, as well as by a rivet, with an additional rivet located at the rear of the helmet. The exterior features are completed by a protruding visor and rolled edge, forming a smooth rim.

The interior is fully lined with a magnetic metal band, held in place by the aforementioned exterior rivets, which bears a light-brown leather liner. The liner features eight fingers, each of which is stamped with five holes, with an additional hole at the top of each through which is looped a drawstring. Set into the metal band are dual magnetic metal loops accommodating a fully-intact black leather chinstrap, itself with an adjustable magnetic metal buckle. One of the fingers bears a black ink size stamp of “56”. The interior bears an etched maker’s mark of “ET” for Eisenhüttenwerk Thale, as well as a size stamp of “64”. There are additional etched numbers “717” at the rear. The helmet measures 228 mm (w) x 284 mm (l) x 148 mm (h). Soe loss of paint and material fatigue to the leather features are evident, but it is in an otherwise near extremely fine condition.