Germany, Heer. An M42 Stahlhelm, Single Decal Version, by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale

(Heer Stahlhelm M42). A well-preserved Heer M42 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a magnetic molybdenum steel shell which retains the majority of its factory-original apple-green paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference to secure the interior fixtures in position, while the shell is also flanked by two integral ventilation eyelets. A decal is fixed in place directly below the left eyelet, measures 34 mm (w) x 40 mm (h), and consists of a black shield bearing a silver-grey Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika. The rim demonstrates no crimping in standard M42 format. A non-magnetic metal ring surrounds the interior of the shell and retains an original brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and an additional eyelet through which is looped a drawstring. Two aluminum rings descend from the sides of the ring and retain an original two-piece chinstrap constructed of dark brown leather, fastened and adjusted with a functional magnetic metal buckle. Stamped onto the back of the skirt is a code of “CKL64”, indicating manufacture by Eisenhütternweke, Thale, with a shell size of “64”, situated above a heat roll code of “2725”. Notably, an illegible handwritten owner’s name appears below the codes in white ink. Measuring approximately 24.5 cm (w) x 28.5 cm (l) x 14 cm (h), the helmet demonstrates issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include moderate wear and scratching through the shell resulting in some loss of paint and surface oxidation, extensive scratching and deterioration of the decal, loosening of the rivets, and some material fatigue of the leather fixtures. This wartime example remains in a better than very fine condition.