Originally finished in a dull green, this helmet has been oversprayed with a combination of brighter green and a light tan, the latter mixed in with some manner of grit, likely sawdust. Mixed green and tan paint is associated with both paratroopers active in Tunisia during the African campaign and in Northern France and Normandy while Operation Neptune was unfolding. 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 "1421" stamped in the back and "ET68" in the left, with the leather webbing ink stamped with the "57/68" size markings and a Heisler makers mark. Formerly of the Russ Hamilton collection, with consignor notes attributing the item to Normandy, specifically to the 6th Fallschirmjaeger Regiment, a component of General Hermann-Bernhard Ramcke's 2nd Parachute Division. Active in Italy and on the Eastern Front, the 6th Regiment was in Carentan for D-Day, and saw heavy action against the American 101st Airborne before finally being driven out of the area. In the end, the 6th was effectively destroyed in the Falaise Pocket, while the remainder of the 2nd Division was pinned down in Brest and forced to surrender along with Ramcke. This helmet camo was singular to the 6th Regiment in Normandy. It is well known to collectors. The first batallion of this regiment experienced serious losses against elements of the 101st Airborne Division.

Very good. Typical wear and rubbing is present on the lower edge, exposing plain brown metal, with some mild wear on the exterior. The interior is good, with some tears and staining of the webbing, mild wear on the straps, and a few oxidization spots on the metal. This is the finest example the consignor has seen.