Germany, SS. A Rare Waffen-SS M40 Steel Helmet, Single Decal and Owner-Attributed Example, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale

(Waffen-SS Stahlhelm M40). A rare and well-preserved Waffen-SS M40 steel helmet, constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell which retains the majority of its original dark grey paint. The shell is flanked on each side by an integral ventilation hole, while three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference to firmly hold the interior fixtures in place. Situated just below the right ventilation hole is a partially intact decal consisting of a white shield, trimmed with a black border and bearing black double Sig runes, measuring 32 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). The rim is fully crimped, providing a smooth edge throughout the skirt. An aluminum ring surrounds the interior, and is firmly held in position by the shell rivets. Two metal loops descend from the ring and retain an original two-piece brown leather chinstrap, with the left side perforated with ten eyelets meeting a metal buckle stitched onto the right, allowing for a fully customizable fit. Also emanating from the ring is a brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, all perforated with five ventilation holes and topped by additional eyelets which accommodate an original drawstring. Visible on the left side of the liner is a handwritten owner’s name and rank reading “SS USTUF SCHAFFER”, with Schaffer additional etched into the back of the skirt. Also stamped onto the skirt is a maker’s mark of “ET66”, indicating production by the noted helmet producer of Eisenhüttenwerke, Thale, with a shell size of 66, and a code of “1163” on the back of the skirt. The helmet measures approximately 23.5 cm (w) x 28.5 cm (l) x 13.5 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and field wear are evident, and include moderate scratching and loss of paint throughout the interior and exterior of the shell, in addition to minor fatigue of the leather elements. A scarce and owner-attributed example, this desirable helmet remains in a near extremely fine condition.