Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice original M1938 Beaded Luftschutz Gladiator German helmet. The exterior of this German helmet retains at least 90% of the original dark blue paint, with overall wear, with some chipping and oxidation. The helmet retains the original split pin rivets, with virtually complete paint. The Luftschutz decal is clean and 95% complete with only a few scuffs and wear, and a lovely yellowed patina.
The inner skirt is maker marked with stamping into the steel with RL2 – 38 / 28. These markings would seem to indicate that the helmet was made in 1938, though we do not know if any records were kept of the maker. The 28 may be the maker mark, or the week it was produced. The shell itself looks somewhat deformed, but it looks like it was possibly stamped in a hurry, and not fully rounded, something we haven’t seen before.
The oilcloth liner is complete and in good condition, and is still supple. Unfortunately the top tie was simple twine, and has broken in one spot, and also pulled through one of the fingers of the liner, as shown. The chin strap is rubberized canvas, and has held up quite well, though the two layers have split apart.
Overall a very good complete German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet, a great example of this model helmet from World War Two. Ready to add to your collection and display!