Spring Military Aviation and Militaria Auction
Lot 271:
Description
This is an exceptionally rare original World War Two German M40 helmet distinguished by its dual decals identifying it as a piece of SS Croatian volunteer history. The black helmet shell features two prominent shields, one bearing the distinct SS runes and the other displaying the red and white checkerboard shield of Croatia. This combination is characteristic of helmets issued to the 13th Waffen Mountain Division of the SS Handschar 1st Croatian, a unit formed primarily of Bosnian Muslims with Croatian and German personnel.The classic M40 helmet shell shows evidence of field use and retains its original dark finish with a desirable patina. The helmet’s interior presents a wonderful study in wartime originality. The M31 leather liner is remarkably intact showing significant age and use with its perforated fingers and original tie string remnants. The original leather chinstrap is also present, fastened to the liner bales. A visible stamp or mark appears on the interior shell surface possibly a manufacturer code or size marking.The SS rune decal on the left side is a powerful and recognizable symbol of the Waffen-SS, featuring a silver-white shield with black runes. The right side features the bold red and white checkerboard or _ahovnica shield, clearly denoting the Croatian allegiance of the volunteer division. The presence and condition of both decals are critical for these rare helmets.This artifact is a museum-quality piece representing a unique and often controversial aspect of WWII history and Axis auxiliary forces. Its original condition and dual insignia make it a highly sought-after collector’s item in the field of Third Reich militaria.
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