Germany, Feuerschutzpolizei. An M34 Double Decal Aluminum Helmet, by D.R.P. Thale

(Feuerschutzpolizei Stahlhelm M34). A well-preserved Feuerschutzpolizei M43 double decal helmet, constructed of an aluminum shell which retains the majority of its original black paint. It is flanked on each side by dual sets of seven ventilation holes, situated above decals. The left side features a black shield bearing a silver Ordnungspolizei insignia in the form of an oval oak leaf wreath overlaid by a German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 32 mm (w) x 40 mm (h), while the right side features a red shield with a white disc bearing a black mobile swastika, similarly measuring 32 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). Five rivets are distributed around the middle of the outer circumference to secure the interior features in place. Four additional replacement rivets distributed across the crown to the skirt to cover elongated holes formerly securing in place a comb which has been lost to time.. The rim is crimped, providing a smooth edge. A blackened non-magnetic metal ring surrounds the interior, fixed in position with the aforementioned rivets. Emanating from the ring is light brown leather liner which culminates in nine fingers, all perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional hole through which is looped a drawstring. Also attached to the ring is an original black leather chinstrap which fastens with a functional magnetic metal buckle. A post-manufacture padded black leatherette reinforcement is retained on the crown but does not attach to the crown rivets. The edge of the helmet is maker marked “D.R.P. THALE”, while the liner is double-marked with the “EREL” logo of Robert Lubstein, Berlin. It measures approximately 22.5 cm (w) x 29 cm (l) x 13.5 cm (h). In addition to the missing comb the helmet demonstrates moderate scratching and loss of paint throughout the exterior and interior of the shell, and the leather features demonstrate minor material fatigue fatigue. It remains in an overall very fine condition.