Original Czechoslovakian Pre-WWII Vz32/M32 “Egg-Shell” Steel Helmet Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very rare Pre-WWII Czechoslovakian Vz32 Steel helmet, sometimes known as the M32, M34, Vz32/34, and other designations. The Vz32 was the last of many Czech helmet designs, and were issued in the 1930’s and saw service right through to the German Invasion. These helmets would be continued to be worn well after with the German Luftschutz and the German Allied Slovak Army on the Eastern Front. After the war these helmets would be adopted by the Civil Defense and Fire Brigade units.

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 discreet pads that are riveted to the shell, along with a standard heavy leather split chin strap attached on bales that are riveted directly to the shell. There is a marking on the shell reading:

BRATRI G & B BRN.
(LION SYMBOL) – 38

This is for the maker Gottliebs & Brauchbar and a date of 1938, pre-war. It is very difficult to find these helmets pre-war manufactured and without being severely altered.

This helmet is still in the original Pre-War configuration, with olive paint and the original liner. Most Vz32 helmets were refurbished post war, making this a rare find. The exterior shell retains much of the original paint, with a great patina of age. The chin strap and liner are unfortunately not in as good condition, with one of the pads’ leather severely deteriorated and another pad having horsehair pouring out. The chinstrap is present but is disconnected from one side, with the buckle heavily rusted from age.

A good example of a very hard to find helmet. Comes ready for further research and display.