Germany, Heer. An M40 Stahlhelm, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale

(Heer Stahlhelm M40). A well-preserved Heer M40 Stahlhelm, constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel. 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 integral ventilation shafts. The exterior retains an unusual medium-green painted finish with a semi-mottled appearance applied post-manufacture, and demonstrates no decals or other insignia. The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge. An aluminum alloy ring fully surrounds the interior, and is held in place by the exterior rivets fastened through the shell. Emanating from the ring is a period original dark brown leather liner with right fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional top hole through which is looped a period original drawstring. Also emanating from the ring are two aluminum loops retaining a period original brown leather two-piece chinstrap. The latter is perforated with 13 holes on one end, meeting a functional magnetic metal button on the opposite end for a fully adjustable fit. The skirt is stamped with a code of “ET64”, indicating manufacture by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale AG, Thale, with a shell size of 64. The back of the skirt also bears a stamped factory code of “4976”. What appears to be the remnants of an illegible handwritten owner’s name is also visible on the back of the liner. The helmet measures 235 mm (w) x 285 mm (l) x 135 mm (h). It demonstrates minor issues in addition to replacement exterior paint, including oxidation of the interior shell, as well as consistent material fatigue to all leather elements. This field-used helmet is in an overall very fine condition.