Germany, Luftwaffe. An M42 Stahlhelm, Field-Modified for the Mediterranean Theatre

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M42). An interesting and well-preserved Luftwaffe M42 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains a layer of factory-original slate grey paint topped by a layer of field-applied olive-drab lacquer paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the shell is also flanked by integral ventilation holes. A decal remains visible on the left side of the shell just beneath the ventilation hole, and consists of a silver-grey Luftwaffe eagle with feathering and details highlighted in black, measuring 65 mm (w) x 35 mm (h) overall. In classic M42 format, the rim of the skirt remains uncrimped. The interior of the shell is surrounded by a zink alloy ring, secured in place with the shell rivets, which retains an original light brown leather liner which consists of eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet throughout which is looped an original drawstring. Metal loops descend from the sides of the ring for the accommodation of a two-piece brown leather chinstrap, adjusted with a functional magnetic metal buckle. Illegible maker and heat codes are visible on the back of the skirt, while the right side of the liner displays the remnants of a handwritten owner’s name rendered illegible with wear. Minor issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include two small dents to the upper crown, which also shows loss of olive-drab paint consequent to being placed upside-down on hard surfaces when not in wear, with additional moderate material fatigue visible to the leather elements. This interesting and rarely-encountered example, modified for use by Luftwaffe forces in the Mediterranean subsequent to the evacuation of German forces from North Africa, remains in a near extremely fine condition.