Original Item: Only One Available. This is something that is rarely see anymore. This is a very nice Pre-WWII Czechoslovakian Vz32 Steel helmet, sometimes known as the M32, M34, Vz32/34, and other designations. After its annexation by NSDAP Germany, the military stocks of the Czechoslovak army would be sold/given away to Germany and its allies during the Second World War. Most prominently by NSDAP Germany as a Luftschutz helmet. Also being used by the Slovak Republic and its army fighting in the Eastern Front, the helmets being marked with a blue stripe along the rim and a white double cross on both sides. Chile adopted the helmet in 1939 and would use them until 1970. Finland would receive stocks of this helmet from Germany during the Continuation War.
Estonia, Denmark, Yugoslavia, Italy, and Poland would be known to use the helmet in some capacity during or after the Second World War.This particular Vz32 helmet was pressed into service with the Danish State Railway DSB; Danske Statsbaner, as indicated by the “Crown DSB” logo on the outside of the helmet shell.
The Vz32 shell is “egg-shell” shaped, unlike many helmets of the day, which had pronounced contouring, front brims, etc. It has a unique 5 pad liner system, which utilizes 5 discrete pads that are riveted to the shell, along with a standard heavy leather split chinstrap attached on bales that are riveted directly to the shell. The lining pads are in very good condition, though the “fawn white” color on the pads are darkened and stained from heavy use. All the pad stuffing is intact as well with the original leather thong. We closely inspected the interior many times and sadly no markings could be found.
Most Vz32 helmets were refurbished post war, much like this one. The exterior shell retains almost all of the original paint, with some small scuffs and chips.
A wonderful original example ready for further research and display.