*Post WW2, West German Bundeswehr M1A1 (M1956) Steel Helmet & Liner – Size 56*
An excellent example of the West German Bundeswehr M1A1 helmet, introduced in 1956 and used throughout the Cold War era. This post-war model was heavily based on the U.S. M1 helmet in profile but is a single-piece steel shell construction rather than the American two-piece design.
This example retains its original matte olive drab finish and is fitted with a complete and clean leather liner, stamped with clear issue markings including “T4” and size “56”. The interior features a full 8-finger leather pad system with central drawstring, and a leather chinstrap with correct early alloy hardware. The shell also carries the stamped batch or issue code “F-101” inside the rim.
These helmets were issued to West German forces from the late 1950s into the 1980s and are increasingly difficult to find in such original and complete condition.
*Condition*
The helmet is in excellent overall condition. The exterior olive drab paint is largely intact with only minor scuffing consistent with light handling or storage. The interior liner is clean and supple, showing little to no wear, and retains all eight leather pads with the original drawstring firmly in place. The chinstrap is original, made of natural leather with correct alloy fittings, and remains strong and complete with only minor surface wear. All internal stamps are clearly legible, including the liner size “56,” type code “T4,” and shell marking “F-101,” indicating it was an issued item. There are no signs of rust, cracks, or structural damage. Please refer to the photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQAI_2561140525
