Germany, Heer. An Double-Decal M40 Stahlhelm

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). A Heer M40 double-decal Stahlhelm, constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel painted in a dark apple-green. Three rivets are distributed around the exterior circumference of the shell, securing in place the interior fixtures, while the helmet is also flanked on each side by integrated ventilation shafts. It features decals set just underneath the latter, with the left decal consisting of a black shield overlaid by a silver-grey Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, while the right decal bears a classic Wehrmacht tri-colour motif which has been mostly lost to time. The rim of the helmet is crimped, providing a smooth edge. An aluminum alloy ring fully surrounds the interior, held in place by the exterior rivets. Emanating from the ring is a brown leather liner with eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and topped by a further hole which retains an original drawstring. Also emanating from the ring are two loops for the accommodation of a two-piece chinstrap constructed of black leather, with one end perforated with ten eyelets which in turn meet an aluminum buckle. The helmet demonstrates no visible marks with the exception of an illegible handwritten owner’s name on the skirt. It measures approximately 23.5 cm (w) x 28 mm (l) x 13.5 cm (h). Moderate loss of paint is visible throughout, resulting in some surface oxidation, and the leather elements demonstrate consistent material fatigue. This personalized and field-used example remains in a very fine condition.