This is an original 1930s German commercially produced M18 style helmet, initially used by the SS prior to the development of the new M35. These can be discerned from WWI helmets by the discrete stamping by the wearer’s right ear, “D.R.P., ang.”, or “Deutsches Reich-Patent Angemeldet”. The helmet's exterior and interior brim showcase an original, brushed dark blue Luftschutz repaint with surface rust throughout. Many pre-war SS helmets were reissued to the Luftschutz after the M35's introduction - this likely being one of them. The helmet's rear brim is post-production stamped "V.J., 41". Its significance is unfortunately unknown to us. The interior retains its original three-pad leather liner and integrated chinstrap system. Miraculously, the leather components and drawstring are still intact, but certainly exhibit age. The rivets securing the liner are original and show no signs of tampering.