This is a Model 1940 German helmet from World War II. This model helmet first appeared in March of 1940 and was an upgrade of the Model 1935 version. The early 1940 helmets received only the Heer decal on the left side of the helmet. The decal was not applied at the factory after 1943 to comply with orders issued by the Commander of the Wermacht. These helmets had rolled edges and stmaped air vents embossed directly into the steel shell. Exterior paint colors were from medium green to a very dark, almost black, green. Various degrees of texturing were added to the helmet exterior, depending on the plant the helmet was manufactured at. The helmet interior was smooth painted the same color as the exterior. The Model 1940 is a little heavier on weight when compared to the 1935 or 1942 models. Early Model 1940 helmets were issued with the first model aluminum band helmet liners. Model 1940's produced after 1943 were issued with the second model zinc band liners. This helmet is an early Model 1940, equipped with the aluminum band liner. The single Heer decal applied to the left side of the helmet is also indicative of the early production run. The left side of the inner helmet is stamped EF64, representing the shell size of 64mm. The EF shows that the helmet was produced in Fulda, Germany. This one has hand painted camoflauge applied to the exterior of the helmet. The brown scheme was used in the Mediterranean theater. The chin strap is missing as well as the drawstring from the liner. The liner is complete and the leather is in good condition. It fits the shell very tight. So tight that I have been unable to see the stamps on the front, right and left side of the liner. The rear seam of the leather has become unstitched though. The leather shows signs of significant wear. In the back of the helmet rim are some white painted letters. I assume it is the name of the soldier who wore it. This one definitely has the look of having been there! If you collect WWII memorabilia here's an opportunity to own an iconic piece from that global conflict.

Item # AA962

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