Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice original M1938 Beaded Luftschutz Gladiator German helmet, which looks to have seen moderate service during the WWII era, and was then captured by an American G.I. who then repainted the exterior with tri-color decals on both sides and a German breast style eagle on the front. The exterior of this German helmet has been entirely repainted. There is also minor paint loss around the rim, which was most prone to contact with the ground. The interior paint just shows some flaking and oxidation in areas, as well as what look to be some more recent scrapes, which have not oxidized yet.
The helmet has all of the three original liner attachment splint pins, all having been repainted when the G.I. repainted the exterior. The front is painted with a depiction of the German Reichsadler (national eagle), while both the left and right sides are painted with a small version of the Tri-color "National Colors" decal, both with a small white “swas” underneath. There is some wear in the paint, with some chipping to both tri-color shields and some around the eagle, so we are confident that this was painted by a G.I. who captured the helmet during the war.
The 3 rectangular cork pads are still present behind the liner. We cannot find any of the maker stamp on the helmet, but the complete original Luftschutz helmet information decal / paint stamp is still retained:
Vertrieb genehmigt
gemäß § 8 Luftschutzgesetz
Kopfweite: 57
Höchstpreis RM 8.-
This indicates the pricing and distribution information: Highest Price 8.00 Reichsmark. Distribution approved according to Section 8 Air protection legislation. Head Width 57.
The liner in the helmet is a standard leather German WWI style, with the three larger white panels attached to a liner band, which we often see in Luftschutz helmets. The panels are attached to a green oilcloth covered steel band. It is in good condition with some cracking and portions missing, and the top tie strap is present, but it has torn away from some of the pads. The leather double buckled chinstrap is present, but it has broken off of one side of the liner, which could use some repair.
Overall a very good German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet captured and painted by an American G.I. with a great look. Ready to research and display!
- This product is available for international shipping. Shipping not available to: Australia, France, or Germany
- Due to legal restrictions this item cannot be shipped to Australia, France or Germany. This is not a comprehensive list and other countries may be added in the future.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
