M35 Heer ET66

[BruceV]

An effort to liberate the national colours decal was certainly made. You can see the the difference in the paint surrounding it.

I'm not convinced the eagle decal was also liberated but maybe. If it was, then a different technique was used.

[BruceV]

These pictures give some idea as to the damage to the liner. And you should be able to see the name Schlote scratched beneath Grundler.

[MAP]

The name looks fine. Thanks for the photos

[BruceV]

A few pics of the chinstrap.

[MAP]

I think the strap is ok but I'm not a pro and will defer to others.

That said, assuming the strap is real, is is still not original to the helmet. It is a later war strap and was added at some point. War time or post war we can not tell.

[BruceV]

Any other opinions on the originality of the strap?

[TWS]

Any other opinions on the originality of the strap?

I am not a specialist on these, but I think it is original.

However, it is a late war strap with steel buckle and RB # and looks quite fresh compared to the wear and patina of the liner. Who knows when it met the helmet. If it did during the period, it would have surely been relatively soon before useage/wear of the helmet stopped as it exhibits just a little wear and darkening due to sweat.

[BruceV]

Thanks Todd. I've never really doubted the originality of the strap but, as you say, it hasn't had much use. Quite possibly added by a dealer or collector.

If anyone is interested in this helmet, please get in touch.