This exceptional helmet comes from a coin dealer in Mississippi, acquired as a trade-in for coins. Judging by its condition, it appears to have been stored properly for decades, showing minimal surface rust both inside and out.
Description
Model & Lot: Transitional 1940 M40 Luftwaffe helmet, rear lot number indicates early 1940 production.
Shell & Paint: Original blu-grau textured factory finish, later over-sprayed in typical field-applied camouflage. The “one-look” camo immediately signals wartime use, with a striking combination of mauve, brown, and lime green creating excellent in-the-field contrast.
Decal: Single Luftwaffe eagle decal remains fully intact beneath the overpaint, an excellent sign of authenticity.
Liner & Chinstrap: Early-war square bale aluminum liner remains fully intact; drawstring missing. Original bottle green painted chinstrap buckle is still present, typical of 1940-issued helmets.
Size: Large bucket size 68, making this helmet a standout shelf piece alongside other Luftwaffe examples.
Collector’s Analysis
Rarity & Appeal: Transitional 1940 M40 helmets are uncommon, and this one’s combination of intact liner, decal under camo, and oversized shell make it highly desirable.
Condition: Excellent overall; minimal rust, original features mostly untouched.
Display Potential: A true “shelf queen,” ready for display in any WWII German collection.
