Originally developed for use in airborne operations, the fallschirmjaegerhelm variant of the classic stahlhelm eliminated the broad neck protection and integrated a more sophisticated multi-point chinstrap system with greater webbing support and padding. Like the smock, the paratrooper helmet was retained by the fallschirmjaegers as a piece of signature gear as large airborne operations ceased and the units effectively transitioned to elite light infantry. This example has been painted over, mainly in a khaki tan and olive green, with splotches of red/brown and a small amount of mixed in dirt or sand for texture; while not documented, this camo style has often been associated with the German defenders of Normandy and Northern France during the Allied invasion. The exterior has no visible markings or decals, with a set of 4 "two-pin spanner" bolts securing the chinstraps. The interior shows the original dark green finish, with "703" stamped in the back and "ET68" in the left, with the leather webbing ink stamped with the "58/68" size markings and a Karl Helsien(?) makers mark, along with a faint signature for an Obergefrieter Kowohl with an unspecified Pioneer (engineering) platoon. Kowohl has not been positively identified, but German paratrooper formations were known to include engineering units up to battalion level. This particular example is pictured on page 97 (lower left) of John Hodgin's "German Paratroopers in North Africa", noted as "purportedly from Italy, but the pattern could have also been used in Tunisia".

Good overall. The exterior shows over 70% of the camouflage paint, with a number of scuffs and flakes overall. The interior is in good shape, with a few scuffs and cracks on the leather and appropriate staining on the webbing.