SS M40 EF64 Single Decal

**westpier** · 09-03-2013, 04:28 PM

I bought this 10 years ago with a limited knowledge on SS helmets but I did do some research at the time. I've always hoped it was an original just due to what I thought was the quality and the appearence and aging of the SS runes. I can't remember the exact info the seller gave me about it but I think he said the leather lining was original but not to this helmet (one of the 3 rivets is a bit loose which I think backs it up that it was replaced). I seem to remember he also said that the chin strap wasn't original despite it having 'Otto Sindel Berlin 1941' stamped on it.

What really rattled me however was a comment SSamir made in another thread stating that single runes on a M40 EF64 were very rare (unless I've misinterpreted his comment?). Anyway here is my helmet for you perusal. The batch number is 985.

The yellow/gold on the SS runes thats in the pictures is alot less apparent to the naked eye.

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 09-03-2013 04:28 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**FALLSCHIRMJAGER** · 09-03-2013, 07:25 PM

Hi , well I will say that my lot number book gives an EF64 985 as a single decal Luftwaffe helmet. I think this helmet may have had a complete re-paint post war , it looks very thick and shiney from these images and the decals border seems a bit thick to me if it is indeed a POCHER as you would expect on this helmet. I hope I am wrong. Leon.

**KradSpam** · 09-03-2013, 07:32 PM

IMO it's a fake Pocher, certainly no EF decal.

**FALLSCHIRMJAGER** · 09-03-2013, 07:48 PM

by KradSpam

IMO it's a fake Pocher, certainly no EF decal.

Hi Kradspam , I tend to agree with you , the "gold" look seems like pre-printed artificial ageing to me. I would also add that the paint looks very similar to the type on US 1950's M1 helmets. Leon.

**westpier** · 09-03-2013, 08:27 PM

Thanks for the information guys, that thump you may have heard was the sound of my heart sinking! Its a shame as I'd had a windfall of money at the time and thought I'd buy something I'd wanted for a long time. Bit too compulsive/impatient though.

**António Fragoeiro** · 09-03-2013, 08:33 PM

by westpier

Thanks for the information guys, that thump you may have heard was the sound of my heart sinking! Its a shame as I'd had a windfall of money at the time and thought I'd buy something I'd wanted for a long time. Bit too compulsive/impatient though.

Relax, i dont want you having an heart attack!!!
Because its 10 year old purchase, i doubt the seller will give you a refund!!
You can try removing the fake decal and keep the helmet for what it is.

**FALLSCHIRMJAGER** · 09-03-2013, 08:45 PM

by westpier

Thanks for the information guys, that thump you may have heard was the sound of my heart sinking! Its a shame as I'd had a windfall of money at the time and thought I'd buy something I'd wanted for a long time. Bit too compulsive/impatient though.

I hope you were not stung to badly , Dougb and SSamir are the real experts on SS helmets here , so wait for their opinions just in case we are wrong , I for one am still learning about these things!! Leon.

**SSamir** · 09-04-2013, 01:33 AM

A reproduction for sure. Its only a helmet. You have your health, so there will be others.

**DougB** · 09-04-2013, 03:06 AM

It's a bad Pocher as Amdy says. Don't slit your wrists, this is what is called "a learning experience" and you'll be better off for it as a collector.