Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent original M1938 Beaded Luftschutz Gladiator German helmet. The exterior of this German helmet retains about 95% of the original dark blue paint, with just a few scratches and light dents. The helmet retains the original split pin rivets, with original paint. The Luftschutz decal is clean and 95% complete with only a couple very minor scuffs.
The inner skirt is maker marked with stamping into the steel, and under that is more information applied with decals:
RL 2 – 40/16
Vertrieb genehmigt
gemäß § 8 Luftschutzgesetz
Kopfweite: 58
Höchstpreis 8.00 RM
These markings would seem to indicate that the helmet was made in 1940, though we do not know if any records were kept of the maker. The rest of the markings are distribution and price information: Distribution approved according to Section 8 Air protection legislation. Head Width 58. Highest Price 8 Reichsmark. The decals are clear, with only a bit of scuffing towards the bottom.
The leather liner is complete and in very good condition. The leather is very soft and supple, and the top securing string is present. The chin strap unfortuntely has degraded a bit, having shrunk and become stiff, with some tearing. It was placed over the brim years ago, and at present cannot be moved without risking further tearing.
Overall a very good complete German WWII M38 Luftschutz helmet, a great example of this model helmet from World War Two. Ready to add to your collection and display!