Germany, Heer. A Battle-Damaged Heer M40 Steel Helmet

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). An excellent example of a battle-damaged Heer M40 double-decal steel helmet, constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel, with the exterior retaining some of its original paint. The helmet is flanked on each side by original decals, with the right consisting of a shield bearing a Wehrmacht tricolour, measuring 34 mm (w) x 42 mm (h), and the left featuring a balck shield overlaid by a Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, similarly measuring 34 mm (w) x 42 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. 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 a drawstring. Also attached to the ring are dual aluminum loops retaining a two-pieces black leather chinstrap, retaining a magnetic metal buckle, which has since been severed on the right. Stamped onto the interior of the shell is a size mark of “SE68”, with an additional code of “3214”. Notably, the shell demonstrates battlefield-acquired shrapnel damage. This includes two spots of penetration, with jagged metal driven into the interior, as well as three dents which have not penetrated the metal. All of these spots demonstrate corresponding rust. The helmet measures 245 mm (w) x 298 mm (l) x 135 mm (h). In addition to the shrapnel damage, there is loss of paint evident throughout the shell, deterioration of most of the decals, and fatigue of the leather features. This storied example of a Heer M40 steel helmet is in an overall fair condition.