December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 163:
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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