Original German WWII M38 Luftschutz Beaded Gladiator Air Defense Helmet – dated 1938 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice original M1938 Beaded Luftschutz Gladiator German helmet. The exterior of this German helmet retains about 95% of the original dark blue paint, with light wear, including some chipping and paint loss. The helmet still has all three of the original permanent liner rivets, with nearly complete paint. The Luftschutz decal is clean and 85% complete with a few scuffs and wear, with a lovely yellowed patina.

The inner skirt is maker marked with RL- 2 38 / 2 faintly stamped into the steel just below the liner. 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. It may be that it was made under a 1938 contract. Below this is a complete original Luftschutz helmet information decal:

Vertrieb genehmigt
gemäß § 8 Luftschutzgesetz
Kopfweite 56

This indicates the pricing and distribution information: Distribution approved according to Section 8 Air protection legislation. Head Width 56. The markings are mostly clear, with just a bit of wear.

The helmet liner is a three panel type, with two fingers on the end of each panel, attached to a oil-cloth covered fiber band. There is unfortunately much wear and deterioration to the leather components, as well as the oil cloth, exposing the fiber band underneath. The padding under the panels is also missing, as is the top tie, and there is some leather missing, as shown. However, the chin strap is still present and in very good condition, with some splitting and wear to the finish.

Overall a very good condition German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet with a nice decal. Ready to add to your collection and display!