Spring Military Aviation and Militaria Auction
Lot 251:
Description
This lot features an extremely rare artifact of the Nazi era: a WWI Model 1916 M16 Combat Helmet that was reissued for use by the SS-Polizei SS Police during the transitional period of the early Third Reich. The M16 shell is distinguished by its flared skirt and the large, projecting ventilation/chinstrap lugs. The helmet shell has been reconditioned and painted in the dark field gray-green appropriate for the police units of the early WWII period. The surface shows minor wear and scuffing, but the paint retains a smooth finish. The original WWI shell lugs are present and intact, confirming the M16 base.Crucially, this helmet bears two distinct decals indicative of the SS-Polizei. On the wearer’s left side is the Ordnungspolizei Eagle Decal, featuring a black shield with a gold/yellow police eagle surrounded by a wreath, clutching a wreathed swastika. This decal is exceptionally well-preserved and estimated to be approximately 95% intact, displaying sharp detail. On the wearer’s right side is the Party Shield decal National Colors Black, White, and Red, with the central Swastika. This decal is estimated to be approximately 90% intact, featuring vibrant colors. The combination of the Police Eagle and the Party Shield on a reissued M16 shell is consistent with service in the SS-Polizei during the transition when these units were absorbed under Heinrich Himmler’s SS command.The interior has been upgraded for WWII use, featuring a complete M35/M40-style perforated leather liner secured by an aluminum liner band. The leather is well-preserved, showing a deep brown patina. The helmet retains its original brown leather chinstrap which utilizes the M16-style lugs for attachment via a period aluminum clip/bail system, a hallmark of these transitional pieces. The chinstrap is complete with its aluminum buckle and shows appropriate aging. This is a premium, highly sought-after collectible due to its rare transitional configuration, the excellent condition of the unique double-decal combination, and the completeness with the liner and original M16-affixed chinstrap.
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