Germany, Luftwaffe. An M40 Stahlhelm, Single Decal Version, by Quist

(Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M40). An extremely well-preserved Luftwaffe M40 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the vast majority of its original slate-grey paint. Three rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is also flanked on each side by an integral ventilation hole stamped directly into the shell. It retains an intact decal situated just below the left ventilation shaft, consisting of a silver-grey Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika, with feathering and details highlighted in black, measuring 70 mm (w) x 32 mm (h) overall. Completing the exterior features is a crimped rim, providing a smooth edge throughout the edge of the skirt. A non-magnetic metal ring surrounds the interior of the crown, secured in position with the shell rivets, and accommodates a brown leather liner which culminates in eight fingers, each perforated with five ventilation holes and additional eyelets through which is looped an original drawstring. Also emanating from the ring are dual magnetic metal loops which accommodate an original two-piece blackened leather chinstrap, adjusted with a functional magnetic metal buckle. Stamped onto the left side of the interior is a mark of “Q60”, indicating manufacture by Quist, Esslingen, with a shell size of 60. An additional heat code of “11453” is stamped onto the back of the skirt, while the liner is stamped with a size mark of “58” in black ink. The helmet measures approximately 23 cm (w) x 29 cm (l) x 15 cm (h). Issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include minor and sporadic loss of paint to the shell which has resulted in some surface oxidation, slight scratching to the decal, and some deterioration of the leather elements reflecting storage conditions and moisture exposure. This untouched and early-war example remains in an extremely fine condition.