A single decal Army (Heer) steel helmet by Firma F.W. Quist. This is a very well preserved example of a converted army-use helmet. The helmet is crafted of sheets of molybdenum steel (magnetic) and was originally painted in a deep yellow/blonde finish. The helmet was then converted and painted with a glossy green exterior, and features inserted air vents on either side, and a golden eagle decal, much resembling Kriegsmarine insignia. The inside is also painted in a glossy green and comes complete with its eight-panel butterscotch-coloured leather liner, each with five ventilation holes, and an additional hole at the tip for the drawstring. The original two-piece leather chin strap is perfectly intact with some cracking from wear and age. The steel buckles of the chin strap are firmly attached to the liner’s steel frame of the helmet with its original pins. The underside of the skirt is stamped “3286” and maker marked “Q68” (Firma F.W. Quist, Size 68) immediately below. The helmet measures 299 mm x 242 mm. The paint on the interior is near perfectly preserved with only some minor scuffs. The paint on the exterior is moderately well preserved with scratches and marks from age and wear that reveal some tropical paint, as well as original primer paint. The eagle is approximately 90% intact. There is light soiling from sweat on the leather. The chin strap is lightly cracked on the inward facing side from use. Overall in near extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The M35 Stahlhelm came into Wehrmacht service in 1935 and was visually very similar to the M17 helmet that was used during the ending phases of the First War. However, some improvements were made; the shape was slightly changed and a different steel alloy was used to reduce the overall weight of the helmet. The interior leather liner was improved and a new strap was introduced to improve durability and comfort. Signature to the M35 helmet is the rolled edge along the rim and inserted grommet-type air vents.