Spring Military Aviation and Militaria Auction
Lot 253:
Description
This lot features a museum-grade example of a German Model 1940 (M40) (SD) Army (Heer) Combat Helmet featuring a superb, period-applied, three-color camouflage paint scheme. The M40 model is identifiable by its rolled edge and the simplification of the ventilation hole, which is crimped directly into the shell.The helmet was manufactured by Vereinigte Deutsche Nickelwerke AG, Schwerte (NS) in the large shell size 64, as marked "NS64" on the left interior skirt. The lot number, stamped into the rear interior, appears to be partially obscured but is consistent with late-war production runs.The exterior displays a dramatic and highly desirable three-color camouflage pattern (Red-Brown, Dark Green, and Ochre/Sand Yellow) applied over the original factory field gray finish. This camouflage paint is thick, showing excellent texture, and is worn in high-contact areas, exposing the base dark gray paint beneath. This distinct wear pattern attests to its authenticity and field usage, making it an exceptional display piece.The helmet was originally a Single Decal (SD) type. The Wehrmacht (Army) Eagle decal would typically have been applied beneath the camouflage, and is either completely covered or removed, as was common practice when camouflage paint was applied in the field.The interior is complete and retains its original components, including the zinc-plated steel liner band and the original leather liner. The leather liner is well-preserved, showing a warm brown patina, perforations for ventilation, and expected aging from use. Importantly, this helmet retains its original, full-length leather chinstrap, which is properly affixed to the liner band. The chinstrap displays legible manufacturer markings on the metal buckle and the expected wear.This M40 camouflage helmet is a classic, untouched "veteran" piece, highly valued for its striking and authentic three-color camouflage, desirable large shell size, and completeness with the original chinstrap.
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