Germany, Heer. An M16 Transitional Steel Helmet, Named and Unit-Attributed

(Heer Stahlhelm M16). A well-preserved Heer M16 transitional Stahlhelm (Steel Helmet), constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell. The exterior retains the majority of an interwar/Second World War period replacement apple-green paint. Five rivets are distributed around the outer circumference, three of which accommodate the interior ring and liner, while two lower rivets secure posts for a chinstrap which has been removed in keeping with Wehrmacht regulations. It is also flanked by protruding ventilation shafts, in turn situated above decals. Both measuring 32 mm (w) x 40 mm (h), the left side features a black shield overlaid by a silver-grey Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, while the right side bears a black, white, and red Wehrmacht tri-colour motif. The rim is crimped, providing for a smooth edge around the skirt. The original chinstrap posts remain intact and visible. Secured in place with the aforementioned rivets is a pressed brown leatherette ring, stamped with a shell size of “64”. The ring retains a brown leather liner which culminates in six fingers, each perforated at the top with an eyelet through which was looped a drawstring that has been lost to time. The reverse of the liner retains three padded white cotton cushions, as well as an name tag bearing a partially-legible black ink owner’s name of “SCHÜTZE EC…HAGEN, 10. KOMP. INF. RGT. 61” Also emanating from the ring are two magnetic metal rings retaining a two-piece black leather chinstrap. It demonstrates no other marks aside from the ring shell number, although more are possibly obscured by the thick coat of replacement paint. It measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 30 cm (l) x 14.5 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include moderate loss of paint and some fatigue to the leather elements. This personalized transitional example is in an overall better than very fine condition.