Luftwaffe M38 Single Decal Fallschirmjäger Camouflaged Combat Helmet (Stahlhelm M38 für Fallschirmjäger). A specially designed helmet for Paratroopers was first introduced in 1935, this first pattern helmet was replaced by a more functional pattern in 1938, the M38 pattern remained in use for the duration of the war. The steel construction M38 helmet retains most (approximately 80%) of its rough textured, three-tone camouflage (field-applied) overpaint, a Luftwaffe decal is clearly visible beneath the paint. Clearly visible are the traces of wire camouflage having been attached to the helmet. All four liner retaining bolts are intact. The helmet is complete with liner and bands, the liner is in used and fragile condition, the bands are in slightly damaged and/or repaired condition, see photos. The name of the soldier is written inside the liner "Gefr. W. Fischer" (Gefreiter). The liner looks to be showing some possible blood staining. The shell is marked with maker and size 'ET68'. 'ET' is indicating production by the 'Eisen-und Hüttenwerke, AG' in Thale/Harz. The reverse interior neck guard apron has a stamped serial number '842'. There are clear traces of wear and usage, the helmet is in uncleaned and untouched condition. True original and hard to find untouched original Paratrooper camouflage helmets are amongst the most difficult to find camouflage helmets. Scarce original Luftwaffe Paratrooper Camouflaged helmet in good used condition!

This helmet originates from the collection of the recently closed Eyewitness Museum and was shown on the cover of the museum leaflet as can be seen in the last picture!