Germany, Third Reich. A Luftschutz Gladiator Helmet, Mid-War Three-Piece Version

(Luftschutz Stahlhelm). An extremely well-preserved Luftschutz Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of multiple panels of magnetic molybdenum steel and retaining the vast majority of its original dark slate-grey paint. Four rivets are distributed around the outer circumference for the accommodation of the interior fixtures, while the crown is flanked on each side by dual sets of ventilation holes consisting of seven eyelets each. The peak retains a mostly-intact Luftschutz decal executed in silver-grey with a transparent base, measuring 120 mm (w) x 35 mm (h). The transition point of the crown and skirt features a raised “bead” fully surrounding the shell, while the wide gladiator-style skirt is flanked by a seam where the individual pieces have been soldered together. A foam pad surrounds the interior of the crown and retains an intact light brown leather liner which culminates in nine fingers, each of which is perforated with five ventilation holes and topped by an additional eyelet through which is looped an original drawstring. The forehead is also perforated with an array of large ventilation holes for maximum comfort during wear. The back of the skirt demonstrates a white ink stamp indicating that the helmet was constructed in accordance with Luftschutz regulations and is a size 58. An additional size mark of “58” is stamped on the liner in black ink, along with a manufacture date of “1943”. The helmet measures approximately 26 cm (w) x 31 cm (l) x 16 cm (h). Demonstrating no notable damage or wear, this classic mid-war example remains in an extremely fine condition.