Wehrmacht Appraisal

German Stahlhelm (WWII Era Helmet)

This is a German military helmet, commonly known as a Stahlhelm, likely a World War II era M40 or M42 model due to its distinctive shape and visible construction features. The helmet shell is constructed from steel, exhibiting a matte, dark grayish-green or field gray finish, characteristic of active service military headgear. Its iconic 'coal scuttle' or 'turtle shell' form includes a pronounced flared skirt extending around the base and a smoothly rounded dome. Visible on the side of the shell are two significant features: an elongated oval ventilation hole located on the upper half, and a dome-headed rivet situated further down, which typically serves to secure the internal liner band to the shell. The surface displays signs of wear consistent with age and use, including minor scuffs, dust accumulation, and subtle variations in the matte paint finish, but no obvious major dents, cracks, or structural damage are discernible from the provided image. There are no national or unit decals visible, which could indicate post-war repainting, a late-war manufacture where such decals were often omitted, or simply severe wear having completely eroded them. The craftsmanship appears utilitarian and robust, designed for military function rather than elaborate aesthetics, typical of mass-produced wartime equipment.