Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice original M1938 Beaded Luftschutz “Gladiator” German helmet. The exterior of this German helmet retains over 80% of the original dark blue paint, with light overall wear and some areas of oxidation where the paint is missing. The helmet still has all four of the original liner attachment split pins, with partly intact paint. The Luftschutz decal is clean, without much yellowing, but it is probably only about 75% complete, with areas that have flaked away on the interior of the design.
The inner skirt is maker marked with stamping into the steel with RL2 38 / 29. 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. There often is a Luftschutz label under these markings, but there is not one on this helmet.
The liner in this helmet is made from thin leather, and has all 9 fingers still intact and supple, though the top securing tie string is missing. The leather is still in very good shape, and is stamped with size 56 on the rear. The liner band is still, and covered with a layer of felt padding. The leather chinstrap is present, and fully intact, with just a bit of stiffness in the leather.
Overall a very good German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet with a great liner and chinstrap. Ready to add to your collection and display!