March 15-17, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/17/2022
German World War II Luftwaffe M35 tri-color spray camouflage (known to collectors as a "Normandy" style) helmet marked "ET68" for the maker "Eisenhüttenwerk Thale / Herz", in a shell size of 68, with a lot number of "4206". Shell retains 90+% of its tan, red brown, and green spray applied camouflage: the standard German armored camouflage colors from 1943 onwards, and applied in that order. The camouflaged has clearly been applied over this helmet which had earlier damage to the smooth prewar blue-gray paint, and would be expected on a helmet which was manufactured several years before the camo was applied. These prewar M35 helmets were often used during the Normandy campaign with camouflage paint and wire applied, and often sent/ brought home by US GIs. The outline of the Luftwaffe eagle and national colors decals are both visible under the camo paint, and you can observe a few tiny areas of the white eagle peeking out. The galvanized chicken wire is of the textbook type used by German forces, with the correct twist pattern, and with the normal accumulation of the zinc wash present among the twists. The wire exhibits oxidation and patina, especially near the rim, and has been attached by bending it under the rim. Interior retains 85-90% of its untouched smooth blue-gray finish, with dust and freckling. A dome stamp is present, and the name "Wieting" is written on the rear skirt. Original aluminum liner band is present and is untouched. Liner is intact, untouched, in a medium brown color, with moderate to heavy stains, dryness, and flaking around its rim. Drawstring is missing and the size stamp is illegible. An original chinstrap with steel fittings is attached, with moderate to heavy wear, dryness, and flaking. The name "Friedl" is present on the liner. The presence of 2 different names on a helmet which had a long life of service is not uncommon. Chinstrap appears to be an era replacement and has been secured over the helmet's rim for a very long time. A very desirable untouched spray camouflage chicken wire helmet. CONDITION: Overall very good to excellent. WEZ
Item Dimensions: 12" X 10"