Spring Military Aviation and Militaria Auction
Lot 259:
Description
An outstanding and completely original World War II German Kriegsmarine single decal M40 combat helmet, factory produced by Eisenh?ttenwerke Thale and stamped ET64 with lot number 1221. This example retains nearly all of its factory-applied dark gray-green finish, with a textbook Kriegsmarine gold eagle decal applied to the left side, displaying excellent definition and classic aging beneath the original lacquer. The contrast between the deep field-gray paint and the golden tone of the eagle makes for a striking and highly desirable presentation, characteristic of naval issue helmets supplied to coastal artillery and shipboard personnel.The exterior shows only light service wear and surface handling consistent with a carefully stored wartime piece, while the paint remains bright and smooth with minimal oxidation. The interior retains its original liner and chinstrap assembly, both untouched and showing honest patina. The leather liner is intact and supple, showing natural darkening from age, with all eight tongues present and secured by the original drawstring. The liner band and rivets remain unmoved and unpolished, with factory oxidation to the steel components. The chinstrap is complete and exhibits typical wear from light use, with no repairs or replaced hardware. Shell markings are clear and legible, with the ET64 manufacturer code indicating Thale production and lot stamp 1221 placing it in mid-war output.Kriegsmarine single decal helmets are far less common than their Heer counterparts and remain among the most visually appealing of all German combat helmets due to the distinct golden eagle decal and naval association. This example, with its crisp decal, excellent paint retention, and full originality, represents a superior and investment-grade specimen suitable for any advanced collection.
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