SOLD
$560.00
Restoration of a rare M17 Austrian SS-TV or VT helmet from the 1930s. Distressed to look and feel original.
Description
This restoration was inspired by helmets worn by members of the SS-TV and VT units during the 1930s. The helmet is an original WWI production Austrian M17. The shell is unmarked as many were, but the shell is size 66.
The helmet was fully stripped of all post-war paint then repainted so-called “earth brown.” The color is likely just left-over Austrian WWI clay brown, but the color matched the brown uniforms worn by members of the SS-VT and TV. The surviving originals were decaled with a unique party shield bearing an oversized circle and swastika, which was used here. The decals were applied touching the ventilation lug which is a characteristic of the handful of surviving originals. Both decals were applied with period natural resin.
The helmet’s liner is the WWI Austrian version which is what is found in originals. The chinstrap is a unique design only used on Austrian helmets acquired by the SS. The strap utilizes old WWI Berdorfer chinstrap hardware but installed on leather opposed to cloth. The both the clasp and the slide buckle used here are original.
The helmet has been distressed reflecting the light service originals would have received. There are chips and scratches from being dropped on cobblestone as well as bumping up against other equipment. The finish has a nice overall patina from handling and storage. It looks and feel the part of an original and will fill that impossible hole in your collection as only 4-5 originals are known to exist. Grab this one while it is still here.
