Germany, SS. A Waffen-SS M40 Stahlhelm, Wartime Single Decal Version, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale

(Waffen-SS Stahlhelm M40 mit Emblem). A rare and well-preserved Waffen-SS M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the majority of its original slate-grey paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is also flanked on each side by an integral ventilation hole. Directly below the right vent is a maker-matched decal consisting of an off-white shield bearing dual black Sig runes, measuring 32 mm (w) x 38 mm (h). The rim of the skirt is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge throughout. A metal ring surrounds the interior of the crown, fixed in position with the shell rivets, and accommodates a brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional top eyelet which retains an original drawstring. Two magnetic metal loops descend from the sides of the ring and retain an original two-piece leather chinstrap, itself adjusted with a functional magnetic metal buckle. Stamped onto the left side of the skirt is a code of “ET64”, indicating manufacture by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale, with a shell size of 64, while the back of the skirt bears a heat code of “903”. The helmet measures approximately 22.5 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 15.5 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include moderate scratching and loss of paint throughout the shell (resulting in some fatigue to the decal), loosening of the shell rivets, and moderate soiling and material fatigue of the leather elements. This wartime helmet, which is a scarce example of a single decal variant in contrast to the more common double decal helmets worn by the Waffen-SS through the early- to mid-war years, remains in a better than very fine condition.