Germany, Luftwaffe. An M40 Stahlhelm, Single Decal Version, by F.W. Quist

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M40). A Luftwaffe M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the vast majority of its original slate-grey paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference of the shell 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 decal consisting of a silver-grey Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika, measuring 66 mm (w) x 34 mm (h). The rim of the helmet is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge throughout the skirt. A two-piece aluminum and magnetic metal ring surrounds the interior, fixed in place with the shell rivets, and retains an intact brown leather liner which consists of eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet for the inclusion of a drawstring. Aluminum loops descend from the ring and retain a two-piece blackened leather chinstrap, which is in turn adjusted with a functional magnetic metal ring. Stamped onto the left side of the skirt is a maker’s code of “Q64”, indicating manufacture by F.W. Quist, Esslingen, with a shell size of 64. Also stamped onto the back of the skirt is an illegible heat code.The helmet measures approximately 22.5 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 15 cm (h). Minor issues consistent with age and field wear are evident, and include some loss of paint to the shell resulting in some surface oxidation, loosening of the shell rivets, and fatigue of the leather elements. The helmet remains in a better than very fine condition.