Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very interesting original M1938 Luftschutz Gladiator German helmet, with a rare early single piece shell, which is also NOT beaded! As best we can tell, these are one of the rare variants seen, though there is not as much information regarding whether they were early production, or very late production. This example looks to have seen long service during the war, so we believe it is an early example, and it actually looks to have gotten somewhat worn and rusted during service.

It was then refit late in the war over the original paint and removed oxidation, which can still be seen under the repaint. There are also some linear dents on the crown, which look to be from before it was repainted. The dark blue repaint is well retained, and it has all four of the liner attachment split pins present, with their correct cork pads. The Luftschutz decal is about 95% complete, having been replaced when the helmet was repainted. We can see some faint markings stamped into the inner skirt, but we cannot make them out, and the original decal is completely missing.

When the helmet was refit, it had a late war canvas liner fitted, which is basically the same as the leather liner except for the material, with 9 fingers. Also fitted is a rare late issue clear plastic chin strap with double buckles. This has become stiff, and one side has split and splintered, so it is overall in delicate condition. We estimate liner size is about 56cm.

Overall a very interesting German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet with a great "service used" look. Ready to research and display!

Formed in late 1932 the Deutsches Luftschutzverband, (German Air Protection League), was a voluntary organization designed to provide civil air raid protection in large civilian centers. Shortly after AH ascension to power the Deutsches Luftschutzverband was restructured and placed under the supervision of the Reichsluftfahrtministerium, (National Air Ministry), under the control of Hermann Göring. On April 29TH 1933 the Deutsches Luftschutzverband was renamed RLB, Reichs Luftschutz Bund, (National Air Raid Protection League) and was given status as an official national organization tasked with all aspects of civil air raid defense. The RLB remained a voluntary organization with a small cadre of paid, full-time uniformed officials to oversee the organization's functions until June 1935 when obligatory service was introduced. Only the most basic uniform and equipment items were supplied to the cadre personnel, with the rest having to be bought personally by members. On September 26TH 1938 a specific helmet for RLB personnel was introduced that incorporated a raised horizontal "bead" between the visors and crown. These helmets commonly called the "Gladiator" style were supplemented with M35, M40 and M42 helmets that also incorporated a raised horizontal "bead" between the visors and crown. The Luftschutz also utilized a variety of captured helmets.