This is a very fine and one-of-a-kind Model 1916 Donation Piggybank Stahlhelm. It is a standard issue First War M1916 helmet, constructed of steel, and painted in an olive-drab colour, that has been converted to function as a piggybank. A a 10 mm x 45 mm slit has been cut into the top of the helmet for coins and paper bank notes to be inserted into the helmet. On the inside of the helmet, the leather harness and other internals have been removed and replaced with a steel plate that is welded to the helmet on four spots. The plate features a 85 mm x 60 mm opening that is secured by a lock for the money to be removed, although the key has been lost through time. The front of the helmet is marked by hand with “Spenden zum 90 Jahr Stiftungsfest der MGV/Donations for the 90th Anniversary of the MGV”. The helmet measures approximately 305 mm x 233 mm and is in better than very fine condition.
Footnote: Our team of researchers was unable to find significant records for what “MGV” stands for, although there is a possibility that is stood for “Männergesangsverein/Men’s Choir Association”. Although Männergesangsvereine usually do not have military affiliations, it is possible that donations were collected on behalf of veterans returning from the war, as veterans made up a big part of the men’s choir membership base.