Germany, Luftwaffe. An M40 Stahlhelm, Repurposed Example, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale A.G.

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M40). An interesting and well-preserved Luftwaffe M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel retaining a post-manufacture, Heer-style, apple-green paint, with trace amounts of its factory-original dark grey paint visible. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is flanked on each side by an integral ventilation hole. Situated directly below the left vent is a partially-intact Luftwaffe decal, consisting of a silver-grey eagle with feathering and details highlighted in black, measuring 64 mm (w) x 36 mm (h). Notably, the peak bears a stenciled and painted inscription of “POLIZEI”, possibly indicating post-war repurposing for domestic field police in the occupation era. A crimped rim completes the exterior features, providing a smooth edge to the skirt. A magnetic metal rig surrounds the interior of the crown, held in place with the shell rivets, and features a brown leather liner culminating in eight fingers, each of which is perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet throughout which is looped an original drawstring. Two magnetic metal loops emanate from the sides and retain a period two-piece blackened leather chinstrap, adjusted with a functional aluminum buckle. Stamped onto the right side of the shell is a code of “ET64”, indicating manufacture by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale A.G., with a shell size of 64. Also stamped onto the back of the skirt is a heat code of “1374”. The helmet measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 15 cm (h). Minor scratching to the paint is evident throughout, exposing trace amounts of original paint and surface oxidation to the base metal, evidence of the removal of a rectangular insignia adjacent to the decal, replacement of the chinstrap with a period example, and minor material fatigue to the leather elements. This unusual example remains in a better than very fine condition.