Fall 2026 Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 457:
Description
Offered here is a desirable WWII German Heer Model 1935 double-decal Stahlhelm, retaining both the German Army eagle and the national tricolor shield. The shell is stamped "Q68," identifying production by F.W. Quist of Esslingen in the desirable large size 68, with the rear skirt stamped with the lot number "242." As one of the principal manufacturers of German combat helmets during the Third Reich, Quist’s early M35 production remains highly sought after by discerning collectors. The helmet retains a substantial amount of its original factory-applied field-gray/green finish, exhibiting honest service wear, scattered surface abrasions, localized finish loss, and minor oxidation. The left side features the early Heer eagle-and-swastika decal, which retains strong detail throughout the wings and national emblem. The right side displays the black-white-red national tricolor shield, a hallmark of early-production M35 helmets prior to the discontinuation of the tricolor insignia. Both decals remain highly visible, with the tricolor shield being particularly well-preserved. Construction adheres to the classic M35 pattern, featuring a signature rolled rim and separately inserted ventilation bushings. The interior retains its original multi-tongue brown leather liner, complete with ventilation perforations and the internal drawstring. The leather exhibits significant age, darkening, and craquelure consistent with a period-used combat piece, including an inked handwritten marking visible upon the surface. The original brown leather chinstrap remains intact, showing expected stiffening and wear. This specimen represents a visually impressive and increasingly scarce example of the early-war German Army M35 combat helmet, capturing an authentic aesthetic of wartime service.
Share this lot:
