Germany, Third Reich. A Luftschutz Gladiator Helmet, Three-Piece Version by Paul Diener

(Luftschutz Stahlhelm). A well-preserved Luftschutz Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of multiple panels of magnetic molybdenum steel and retaining the vast majority of its original dark slate-grey paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is flanked on each side by dual sets of ventilation holes consisting of seven eyelets each. The peak retains a mostly-intact Luftschutz decal executed in silver-grey with a transparent base, measuring 120 mm (w) x 35 mm (h). The transition point of the crown and skirt features a raised “bead” fully surrounding the shell, while the wide gladiator-style skirt is flanked by a seam where the individual pieces have been soldered together. Three strips of cork are secured to the interior of the crown with the shell rivets, and accommodate a blackened leather ring and partially-intact, three-piece brown leather liner with the remnants of a chinstrap. The back of the skirt demonstrates a white ink stamp indicating that the helmet was constructed in accordance with Luftschutz regulations and is a size 58. Also stamped onto the back of the skirt is a code of “RL2-38/28” indicating manufacture by Paul Diener, Dresden. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include sporadic loss of paint to the shell resulting in minor surface oxidation, significant deterioration of the liner and chinstrap, and oxidation to the metal fixtures. This mid-war example remains in a very fine condition.