WWII German M35 Luftwaffe Double-Decal Helmet – Q66 – Lot 4237

Offered is a German Model 1935 steel combat helmet, commonly known as the M35 Stahlhelm, marked Q66 with production lot number 4237.

The Q manufacturer code identifies the shell as a product of F. W. Quist of Esslingen, Germany, while 66 denotes the metric shell size. The M35 pattern is identified by its smooth rolled rim and separately inserted ventilation bushings. These construction features distinguish it from the later M40, which used vents pressed directly into the shell, and the M42, which omitted the rolled edge.

The helmet is configured as a double-decal Luftwaffe example. One side retains the Luftwaffe flying-eagle insignia, while the opposite side retains the black, white and red national tricolour shield used on early helmets. Both decals remain clearly identifiable and show wear, scratches and loss consistent with the overall condition shown in the photographs.

Visible features include:

Q66 manufacturer and shell-size stamp

4237 production lot number

Rolled M35 shell edge

Separate inserted ventilation bushings

Luftwaffe flying-eagle decal

National tricolour shield decal

Three liner-retaining split pins

Aluminum liner-band assembly

Dark blue-grey exterior finish

Surface scratches, paint loss and oxidation from age and use

The leather liner and chinstrap are no longer present. The aluminum liner-band assembly remains installed, although its condition and configuration should be judged from the photographs. The interior crown has substantial surface oxidation.

The M35 was adopted before the Second World War and was the first of the three principal German combat-helmet patterns commonly identified by collectors as the M35, M40 and M42. Early examples were issued with two identifying decals; helmet insignia were progressively reduced and eventually discontinued as the war continued.

This helmet is being offered as an historical military collectible in the exact condition pictured. No individual soldier, unit, campaign, battlefield recovery or veteran bring-back history is known or claimed. I have not cleaned, repainted, restored or treated it while in my possession.

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description. Additional close-up photographs of the decals, shell markings, vents, liner band and interior are available.

Historical collectible only.