December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 166:
Description
Striking German WWII M35 Double Decal Luftwaffe Combat Helmet with Heavy Sand Camouflage
This lot features a dramatically preserved example of a German Model 1935 M35 Double Decal Luftwaffe Combat Helmet, highly sought after for its exceptional camouflage finish and historical appeal. The M35 model is identifiable by its distinct rolled shell edge and separate ventilation grommets.
The helmet shell was manufactured by Emaillierwerke Fulda EF in a large size 64, clearly stamped EF64 on the interior skirt. The lot number, stamped in the rear interior, is 3552. The helmet s exterior is covered in a fascinating, heavily worn, field-applied sand-colored camouflage paint. This tan/ochre overpaint is chipping significantly, revealing the underlying original smooth, dark blue-gray Luftwaffe factory paint beneath in a striking, mottled pattern.
Crucially, this camouflage was applied over both original, period-applied decals, traces of which are still discernible beneath the layers:
On the wearer s left side is the remains of the Luftwaffe Eagle Decal. Although heavily obscured by the camouflage paint and subsequent chipping, the outline and traces of the gold/yellow eagle are visible where the camouflage has flaked away. On the wearer s right side is the partially visible National Colors Shield decal Black, White, and Red. Significant fragments of the red and white band colors are visible through the chipping camouflage, confirming the helmets original double-decal configuration.
The interior is complete with its original, early-war aluminum liner band and the perforated brown leather liner. The leather shows heavy use, drying, and darkening from age, but appears largely intact and securely fastened. The chinstrap bails are present, though the original chinstrap is absent.
This M35 Double Decal Luftwaffe helmet is a compelling relic, highly valued for its desirable M35 model, the authentic and dramatically worn field camouflage, the visible traces of the original double decals, and its large size.
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