Description
This helmet is an original WWI production Austro-Hungarian M17 helmet in size 66. Like many Austrian helmets the shell is not maker marked but there is a P stamped in the dome indicating the steel was rolled by Podi.
The helmet has been restored to look like it might have been worn by a member of the German army after 1940. Many of these old WWI helmets were stripped and repainted after 1940 by various supply depots. Although they were supposed to be issued to rear echelon units, these helmets can be seen worn by front line troops into 1945.
This helmet has been stripped of all post-war paint then repainted the correct shade of aluminum oxide textured field gray. A single decal was applied using period resins. The helmet was then fit with a steel M31 liner and a Czech M32 chinstrap. Czech chinstrap were frequently reissued by an ever supply conscience German military.
The helmet has been lightly distressed to give the feeling of some light use. This would be a great helmet for a reenactor or as a display piece.
