Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice original M1938 Beaded Luftschutz Gladiator German helmet shell. The exterior of this German helmet retains about 80% of the original dark blue paint, with overall wear. It definitely has been painted over on the outside at least once, possibly post war. The paint was removed to show the original Luftschutz decal, which definitely shows wear, but still has a lovely golden color. The helmet shell retains the original liner rivets, though the liner is completely missing, and they are now loose.
The inner skirt is maker marked with stamping into the steel with RL2 39 / 42. These markings would seem to indicate that the helmet was made in 1942, though we do not know if any records were kept of the maker. Around the area are some decal markings, with the bottom line hand written in gold paint:
Vertrieb genehmigt
gemäß § 8 Luftschutzgesetz
Kopfweite 54
Höchstpreis 8.00 RM
This indicates the pricing and distribution information: Distribution approved according to Section 8 Air protection legislation. Head Width 54. Highest Price 8.00 Reichsmark. The markings are mostly clear, with just a bit of flaking.
Overall a very good German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet shell with loads of patina. Ready to add to your collection and display!