Germany, Heer. An M40 Double Decal Stahlhelm, by Vereinigte Deutsche Nickelwerke

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). An extremely well-preserved Heer M40 double-decal steel helmet, constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel, with the exterior retaining most of its original apple-green (Apfelgrün) paint. The helmet is flanked on each side by original decals, with the right consisting of a shield bearing a Wehrmacht red, white, and black tricolour, measuring 34 mm (w) x 40 mm (h), and the left featuring a black shield overlaid by a Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, similarly measuring 34 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). Three rivets are distributed around the outer shell, with two located at the frontal sides and one at the back, securing in place the interior features. Additionally, the helmet is flanked on each side by integral ventilation holes stamped directly into the shell. The rim of the helmet is fully crimped, allowing for a smooth edge. Secured to the interior with the aforementioned rivets is a fitted aluminum ring from which emanates a brown leather liner, completing in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes, as well as a top hole for the accommodation of an intact drawstring. Also attached to the ring are dual aluminum loops accommodating a two-piece brown leather chinstrap, perforated with 13 holes which meet a magnetic metal buckle for a fully adjustable fit. Stamped onto the interior of the shell is a mark of “NS62”, indicating manufacture by Vereinigte Deutsche Nickelwerke, Schwerte, and a shell size of 62. The skirt is also stamped with a heating lot code of “DN20”. It measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 28.5 cm (l) x 13.5 cm (h). The decals demonstrate moderate wear, there is some scratching and with consequent loss of paint to the shell, and age-appropriate material fatigue is evident to the leather elements. The helmet otherwise remains complete and is in an overall near extremely fine condition.