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The German military had been using decals to designate the branch of service since 1935. When the M42 helmet went into production in June of 1942 the branch of service decal for the Heer, Luftwaffe, Kreigsmarine, and SS were still being applied to one side of the helmet.
WWII German Helmets. Identification and classification M35, M40 and M42. Description. “In 1935, a new design was introduced for german helmets. It was lighter, smaller and better suited to a mobile army. This basic model 1935 (designated M35) was modified in 1940 (M40) and again in late 1942 (M42).
In 1935 the Wehrmacht adopted a lower, lighter version of the M1916/18 "coal scuttle" helmet; this became the ubiquitous German helmet of World War II, worn by all branches of the Wehrmacht and SS, police, fire brigades and Party organizations. Collectors distinguish slight production variants as the M35, M40 and M42.
In researching a German WWII helmet, collectors examine all aspects of the helmet--even using a jewelers loupe or a microscope. If you are new to collecting, it is essential to identify the following: The helmet variant (M35, M38, M40 or M42) The military branch (Heer, Luftwaffe, SS, Police, etc.)
M40 and M42 Helmets. After war broke out the German stahlhelm underwent the first of a few minor changes beginning in 1940. The first was mostly a cosmetic change but actually reduced the number of procedures in the production. The vent brushings were omitted and instead a punched, embossed vent hole was incorporated into the design.
The first M42 helmets were produced on August 1st, 1942. The M42 differed from the M40 only in the shape of the rim, which was no longer bent inwards, but left nearly unaltered after the stamping. Another difference, unnoticeable to the naked eye, was the composition of the steel.
Easy steps in identifying authentic M35 M40 & M42 WW2 German Helmet examples. How to identify the different models, manufacturers & branch of service decals.
