WWII German M16 Waffen-SS Single Decal Transitional Helmet, "Duckbill" - ORIGINAL VERY RARE -

Original WWII German M16 Transitional Waffen-SS - Single Decal Helmet  

- TRANSITIONAL "DUCKBILL" WAFFEN-SS -

 - THIS IS A GREAT HELMET- In Battle Used Condition -

This is a  100% original WWII German Model M16 Waffen-SS Single 1st Pattern Runic Shield Decal Helmet. This is an excellent example of a period painted field grey/green, and given a single runic decal. Early transitional model helmets were always given first pattern runic shields (SS) and no helmets bearing second pattern decals have ever been considered "original transitional helmets" by modern collectors. This is a first pattern runic shield, an original transitional helmet. The single runic (SS) decal is in great shape, period applied and all original to the helmet. The shell is marked with the manufactures mark "ET64" on the underside of the shell skirt left side next to the chinstrap mounts. 

The liner is all original, and original to the helmet. All the rivets/split pins are correct and intact. The liner leather is in great shape, light brown leather, with normal wear and discoloration from use. The liner still has the tan canvas padding under each of the three leather flaps. The helmet has an original leather chinstrap with aluminum hardware attached to the helmet with the original mounts for the M16. 

No dents, cracks, splits or extra holes in this helmet. In all, this is a fantastic example of a all original German Model M16 Waffen-SS Single 1st Pattern Runic (SS) Shield Decal Transitional Helmet. This helmet appears to have never been disassembled.

The only Waffen-SS helmets that can truly be call "Transitional" in nature, are those that were first issued to the SS-Verfugungstruppe (SS-VT) units. These units were the first to begin using the field grey WWI helmets, models M16, M17, M18 and Austria types. Helmets were modified by adding the first pattern runic (SS) decal, some were painted grey and given a single first pattern runic (SS) decal in late 1940 and early 1941. Early transitional model helmets were always given first pattern runic shields (SS) and no helmets bearing second pattern decals have ever been considered "original transitional helmets" by modern collectors. This is one of those original transitional 1st pattern runic (SS) rare helmets.

This a great German Waffen-SS true transitional, 1st pattern runic (SS) decal shield helmet. A very desirable item for top collectors and museums. These helmet are scarce and hard to find, don't miss out on your chance to have one of these historical helmets. This would be a great addition to any museum or collector.