M35 Heer ex-double decal ‘overpaint’ steel helmet SE68 1937

Description

Early produced M35 army steel helmet in good condition. The helmet started as an apple green coated double decal helmet in 1937 but was overpainted with field green paint due regulations most likely in 1940 before the invasion of Western Europe. Therefore the party decal has been covered and is still visible under the paint. The eagle decal on the left side was left open and shows nice aging and patina. Inside the helmet a single band alumium liner is installed and the band is broken on one side (that’s why they switched to the reinforced liner bands after this). The band is dated 1937, the plit pins remain straight and unmessed with. The leather is supple and shows heavy wear, matching with the helmet. The chin strap is broken and I left it on there as found. Large and rare shell by SE, size 68, lot number: 3200. Named in the back to ‘Stoll’.