Germany, Third Reich. A Luftschutz M35 Beaded Stahlhelm, by F.W. Quist

(Luftschutz Stahlhelm M35). A well-preserved Luftschutz M35 Stahlhelm (steel helmet), constructed of a single sheet of magnetic molybdenum steel which retains the vast majority of its original dark 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. The transition point of the crown and skirt features a raised “bead” fully surrounding the shell. The peak retains a mostly-intact Luftschutz decal executed in silver-grey with a transparent base, measuring 120 mm (w) x 35 mm (h). Completing the exterior features is a crimped rim, providing a smooth edge throughout the bottom of the skirt. Three double-layered cork pads are secured in place in the interior with the shell rivets, and accommodate an original and partially-intact khaki-tan leather liner, culminating in six fingers. Emanating from the liner is a two-piece brown leather chinstrap adjusted with a functional blackened magnetic metal buckle. Stamped onto the right side of the skirt is a maker’s code of “Q64”, indicating manufacture by F.W. Quist, Esslingen, with a shell size of 64. A heat code of “8742” is stamped onto the back of the skirt, while the liner bears a size mark of “56” in black ink. The helmet measures approximately 22.5 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 15.5 cm (h). Minor scratching and loss of paint is visible throughout the shell, resulting in minor surface oxidation and deterioration, while moderate material fatigue is visible to the liner resulting in the loss of some of the finger tips. It remains in a better than very fine condition.