Germany, Luftwaffe. A Winter Flight Helmet, with Communications Equipment, Mid-War Example by Deutsche Telephonwerke

(Luftwaffe Fliegerkopfhaube). A very well-preserved Luftwaffe winter flight helmet, constructed of a multi-panel brown leather shell. A brown elasticized cotton strap emanates from the back and fits through a channel set into the crown, where it emerges at the front in a metal ring. Two straps are set into the back sides and fasten closed with functional metal snap buttons for the inclusion of equipment. Protruding leather-lined ear pieces flank the sides, and house bakelite headphones which open into the interior. Chinstraps emanate from the lower front of each side and are closed with functional metal buckles. Emanating from the lower back are a rubber-insulated cord culminating in a plug, as well as an additional brown leather strap containing bakelite-housed microphones. The interior is fully lined in white wool for maximum comfort in winter flying conditions, while the forehead features a white suede sweatband. A fully-intact manufacturer’s label remains visible on the interior, correctly issued for the Luftwaffe Fliegerkopfhaube (flight helmet) in winter pattern (LKP W101), with a maker code of “BXO” for Deutsche Telephonwerke und Kabelindustrie A.G., Berlin, stamped with an issue date of “JAN. 1943”. It measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 23 cm (h) when folded on a flat surface. Minor material fatigue is evident throughout, but this mid-war and complete set remains in a near extremely fine condition.