SOLD - Coastal Artillery Double Decal M35 Heer Army Helmet

Description

8/16/23 - This is an original, early WW2 production M35 Heer Army double decal helmet. This example was found and purchased by the previous collector on the Island of Alderney, a known location for heavy German defenses such as; flak artillery, bunkers, anti-tank walls, and hundreds of gun emplacements. The purchase was made after a number of conversations with an elderly woman who had found the helmet (and other artifacts) in her home upon her repatriation and return to Alderney after the war. The helmet is an interesting collector example due to the Kriegsmarine style "battleship grey" paint on the exterior. At first glance, one might think this is a Kriegsmarine helmet due to the golden colored eagle decal, however E.F. didn't make M35 Kriegsmarine helmets. So this is an aged double decal army helmet, likely worn by a soldier who fought alongside Kriegsmarine troops also stationed in Alderney, hence why the helmet has Kriegsmarine style paint. The shell exterior has honest surface wear and natural aging throughout, but is still a high-end example with clearly visible decals and original paint throughout. The interior shell is maker marked and size stamped "E.F. 68". The back visor is lot numbered "20407". There are small areas of rust on the shell, and along the area where the liner band is present. The leather liner is in great condition with no major issues, and the interior of the liner band has a section of "Le Martin" French newspaper, dated June 1943. The original chin strap is still attached and mostly intact with a break at the base of the size-adjustment bracket. There's a faint maker stamp at the end as well. A very cool example of a double decal M35 Heer helmet.