Germany, RLB. A Reichsluftschutzbund M34 Stahlhelm

(Reichsluftschutzbund Stahlhelm M34). A Reichsluftschutzbund (Reich Air Protection League/RLB) M34 Stahlhelm, constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell which retains the majority of its original dark blue-grey paint. Four rivets are distributed around the exterior circumference for the accommodation of the interior features, while the crown is also flanked on each side by dual arrays of seven ventilation holes. The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge around the skirt.  Four pieces of cork are affixed to the interior of the crown with the shell rivets, in turn accommodating a brown leather liner which culminates in seven fingers, each perforated at the tip with an eyelet for the accommodation of a drawstring which has been lost to time. A padded brown leather cushion is similarly affixed to the crown. Emanating from the sides of the liner is a two-piece blackened leather chinstrap which is fixed in position with period replacement metal wires. Unmarked, the helmet measures approximately 22 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 14.5 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include moderate loss of shell paint with some surface oxidation, minor loosening of the rivets, and significant desiccation of the cork and leather features which has resulted in a shrivelled appearance. The Stahlhelm remains in a very fine condition.