Germany, Ordnungspolizei. A M42 Steel Helmet, by Eisenhüttenwerk Thale

(Ordnungspolizei Stahlhelm). This is a very well-preserved Ordnungspolizei M42 steel helmet, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shell. The helmet is flanked on each side by an integrated ventilation hole, while three rivets are evenly distributed around the circumference of the helmet, securing the interior features in place. It is also flanked on each side by decals. The right decal consists of a red shield overlaid by a white disc, in turn bearing a black mobile swastika, measuring 33 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). The left decal consists of a black shield, trimmed with silver-grey borders, overlaid by a silver-grey Ordnungspolizei insignia in the form of a German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, on top of an oval oak leaf wreath. This insignia similarly measures 33 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). The edge of the helmet is uncrimped and transitions into an interior similarly painted in black. The interior circumference features a complete magnetic metal ring, secured in place by the aforementioned rivets. Dual magnetic metal loops emanate from the ring and secured in place an intact two-piece brown leather chinstrap, secured together and adjusted by a magnetic metal buckle. It also features a light brown leather liner consisting of eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional hole securing in place an intact drawstring. The interior of the rim is stamped with a maker’s mark of “CKL”, indicating manufacture in 1943 or later by Eisenhüttenwerk Thale, with a size stamp of “62” and an additional mark of “2762”. It measures 235 mm (w) x 284 mm (l) x 130 mm (h). Age-appropriate oxidation and loss of paint is evident, with moderate deterioration apparent to the decals. The helmet is in an overall better than very fine condition.