Germany, Heer. An M42 Stahlhelm, by Emaillierwerke A.G.

(Heer Stahlhelm M42). A Heer M42 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains much of its original apple-green paint. Three flattened rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the liner pins, while the crown is flanked by integral ventilation holes. The rim remains fully uncrimped in classic M42 format. A metal ring surrounds the interior, fixed in place with the liner pins, and accommodates a light brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet through which is looped a drawstring. Metal loops emanate from the sides of the ring for the accommodation of a black leather chinstrap, which has detached from the right side. The back of the skirt is stamped with a code of “EF66”, indicating manufacture by Emaillierwerke A.G., Fulda, with a shell size of 66, above a heat code of “2421”. An additional illegible mark is visible on the tip of the chinstrap. The helmet measures approximately 25 cm (w) x 29.5 cm (l) x 15 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and field wear are evident, and include scratching and loss of paint throughout the shell which has resulted in some surface oxidation, loosening of the liner pins, replacement of the liner which has bent the interior ring, and material fatigue to both the liner and chinstrap. This late-war example remains in a very fine condition.