Germany, Heer. An M40 Stahlhelm, Single Decal Version, by Emaillierwerk Fulda

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Heer M40 Stahlhelm (steel hemet), constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell which retains the majority of its original apple-green paint. Three rivets are distributed around the exterior of the shell to accommodate the interior fixtures, while the shell is also flanked on each side by an integral ventilation shaft. Situated below the left shaft is a decal consisting of a black shield bearing a silver-grey Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, measuring 32 mm (w) x 40 mm (h) overall. The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge around the skirt. An aluminum ring surrounds the edge of the crown, fastened in place with the exterior rivets, and retains a brown leather liner that culminates in nine fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional top eyelet for the accommodation of a drawstring which has been lost to time. Two aluminum loops descend from the sides of the ring and feature a two-piece brown leather chinstrap which is adjusted with a functional aluminum buckle. Stamped onto the left side of the skirt is a code of “EF66”, indicating manufacture by Emaillierwerk Fulda, with a shell size of “66”. The back of the skirt is stamped with a heat code of “20436”. Measuring approximately 23 cm (w) x 28.5 cm (l) x 14 cm (h), the helmet demonstrates issues consistent with age and field use, including moderate loss of paint and surface oxidation to the shell, extensive material fatigue throughout the leather elements, and some bending of the interior ring. A battle-worn example, it remains in an overall better than very fine condition.