This is an original German M35 Luftwaffe combat helmet from the Second World War, finished in Luftwaffe slate grey and featuring both Luftwaffe eagle and national tricolour decals, each retaining around 60% of their original finish. The helmet shell remains structurally sound, though it lacks its liner and rivets and does not bear visible factory markings, worn over time.
This helmet presents a solid piece of WWII militaria history with its original finish and decals. Early in the war, these decals were standard issue, but from 1940 onward, regulations called for their phased removal to reduce visibility in the field. Thus, surviving double-decal Luftwaffe helmets are increasingly rare and sought after.
The M35 helmet (Stahlhelm Modell 1935) was introduced by Nazi Germany in 1935 as a replacement for the M1918 helmet used in WWI. Designed for improved comfort and protection, the M35 featured a rolled edge, lighter weight, and a dual-decal format during the early war years. Each branch of the Wehrmacht used its own decals, with the Luftwaffe (Air Force) helmet typically displaying a silver eagle clutching a swastika on the left, and the national tricolour on the right.
*Condition*
The helmet retains both of its original Luftwaffe decals, each approximately 60% visible. It no longer has its liner and is missing all three rivets, as well as the vent bushings normally fitted around the air holes on M35 helmets—though the outline and wear marks where the bushings were previously seated are still visible. There are no factory or maker’s markings visible inside the shell, likely worn away over time. The slate-grey/blue combat finish remains largely intact, with no significant cracks or holes present. Some surface wear, consistent with age and wartime use. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
