*German, WW2, M40 SE64 Helmet, Lot 7934, Original Liner, Double Decals Removed, Named Example*
An excellent and completely original German M40 combat helmet, maker marked SE64 (Sächsische Emaillier- und Stanzwerke, Lauter) with lot number 7934. Finished in its factory-applied grey-green combat paint, the helmet retains strong field character with service wear and patina. Both decal positions are visible under the paint, showing faint “ghosts” where the Wehrmacht eagle and national tricolour once were, later removed/overpainted in line with regulations.
The helmet retains its original aluminium liner band, stamped 64/57, fitted with square chinstrap bales — the pattern introduced in 1937 and carried into the first batches of M40 production before being replaced by the steel band. The original leather liner is intact and supple, stamped 57 on a tongue, and inscribed in period ink to G.H. Alberer, adding desirable provenance.
Historical Note:
The M40 Stahlhelm was adopted on 26 March 1940, replacing the M35 with the new feature of stamped-in air vents, a simplification that sped up production. SE (Sächsische Emaillier- und Stanzwerke) was one of the earliest factories to switch to M40 manufacture, and helmets from this transitional period are especially sought after by collectors. Initially issued with double decals, these were officially removed from 1940 onwards, and by 1943 even the Heer eagle was discontinued. Many helmets, like this example, show faint decal “shadows” where they once were — a highly desirable and historically correct detail that demonstrates wartime reissue practice under time pressure.
This helmet, with its early aluminium liner band, square bales, and matching SE64 / lot 7934 production marks, is a textbook example of an early SE-produced M40. The addition of a soldier’s name inside the liner enhances both its authenticity and collector appeal.
*Condition*
The helmet is in very good, untouched condition, with factory paint showing honest field wear, scattered scuffs, and areas of patina consistent with age and service. Both decal positions are still faintly visible beneath the paint. The original liner is complete, with all tongues intact and the drawstring present. Leather shows only light wear, with clear size stamps and named inscription. The aluminium liner band is correctly marked and solid, with no distortion. No chinstrap. Overall, a desirable early-war SE M40 combat helmet with excellent provenance. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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