Named Single Decal Model 1938 Paratrooper Helmet

A fine example of an uncleaned and untouched World War II German paratrooper helmet. The exterior field gray paint on this paratrooper helmet would rate as approximately 80% intact. The Luftwaffe eagle decal is approximately 70% intact. The side of the helmet skirt is stamped “ET 68”, indicating an early production size 68 helmet shell manufactured by Eisen und Huttenwerke A.G. in Thale. The lot number “926” is stamped in the rear of the helmet skirt. The helmet has four unturned spanner bolts consistent with the period of production. The interior leather liner is well marked by the maker and designated as a size 58. The “Y” harness chin strap assembly is partially intact. The harness exhibits what is commonly referred to as a “dead man’s cut”, with the two side straps and one of the two back straps having been cut to enable the helmet to be taken off of the wearer’s head. The name “Thielert” is written in ink in the liner in two different locations. The helmet was at one time in a museum and there is a museum accession number inked onto the interior of the rear skirt. This helmet shows use and wear but it is in overall very good condition aside from the cut harness. The helmet is uncleaned and has been untouched sine it was brought home as a souvenir by an American soldier in 1945. Only one look at the helmet leaves no doubt that this one was worn in the field by a German paratrooper during the Second World War.