This is an incredible rare and unique piece for anyone’s collection. What makes this helmet unique is it’s helmet covers. Original World War 1 stahlhelm helmet covers are incredible rare and many collectors just don’t have one. This helmet covers is very unique since it is green instead of the much more common tan color. This helmet cover also features a mix of blood and rust splotches. The dark brown with a hint of red spots are blood and the orangish red spots are rust marks.

The helmet is in great condition as well. It is an Si 66 and features some sort of writing on the shell. I believe the writing says “86” or “66” but it is quite hard to tell. The liner is in great shape but the helmet is missing a pin. The top of the helmet is a bit rusty but isn’t too bad. You can see the original green paint under the field grey paint. This helmet was more than likely refurbished during the war which was common practice for depots back then.

World War 1 introduced many unexpected challenges and one of those challenges were head injuries. The stahlhelm was Germany’s solution to that problem. The m16 was the first mass produced German army helmet.

Helmet covers for the stahlhelm were only made in small quantities. Textile factories in Germany prioritized uniforms and other equipment over helmet covers. For the most part, German soldiers relied on painting their helmets over using helmet covers since helmet covers were incredibly rare but paint was not. That explains why you’ll see 100 painted stahlhelms before you see a stahlhelm with a helmet cover.