*Original German WW2 M42 Combat Helmet – CKL68 / Lot No. 4100 – With Original Leather Liner (No Decals)*
This is an authentic German WWII M42 steel helmet, manufactured by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale (code: CKL) from August 1943, during the post-decal production period. This particular helmet is lot numbered 4100 and stamped CKL68 - though the C is now worn away. The original leather liner is still intact and marked D9, and the zinc-plated steel liner band remains in place.
The M42 Helmet was introduced on the 6th July, 1942, and was the last time German Helmets were upgraded during the war. It was the final evolution of the iconic German combat helmet, following the M35 and M40. Though officially considered only a variant of the original M35 design by the German military, these later models reflected a streamlined wartime production process—eliminating rolled edges and decals (from 1943) to speed up manufacturing during a period of critical material shortages and intensified combat demands.
As of August 28, 1943, an official order ended the application of decals for Heer, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine helmets. SS decal production ceased by November 1, 1943. From that point forward, helmets like this one were issued in slate gray with a rough textured green-gray finish (RTGG)—a practical choice prioritizing efficiency and camouflage over earlier decorative insignia.
This helmet is classified by noted historian Brian Ice as:
M42 CKL68 4100 - ND RTGG ZSH, interpreted as:
ND – No Decals
RTGG – Rough Textured Gray-Green finish, typical for Heer, Kriegsmarine, or SS Field Police
ZSH – Zinc-plated steel liner band with sheepskin or leather interior
With its solid construction, original liner, and classic battlefield-worn appearance, this helmet represents a prime collector’s example from the late-war period of the Third Reich’s military history. A must-have for serious collectors of WWII German militaria.
*Condition*
Excellent used condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
