WW1 German M16 Splotch Camouflage Helmet & Chinstrap

A WW1 German M16 helmet complete with its chinstrap & in a three tone splotch camouflage & with its original brown leather chinstrap.
As is now well recorded the German army used a wide variety of different styles when it came to camouflage this only being standardised by the Ludendorff order in 1918 . Prior to this many items of equipment were already being colourfully painted including cannons & vehicles as well as helmets. This scarce piece has utilised the helmets apple green factory paint as a base with ad hoc thickly applied over splotches of reddish brown , tan & dark green. The maker & size markings 'ET64' can be seen under the helmets rim for the firm Eisenhutte, Thale 64' . The remains of a black ink stamped 'AK' depot mark & size can be seen to rear rim underside. All three liner rivets are totally undisturbed . All three cushion holders are present & in undamaged condition with all three cushions contained within each. One pad holder has utilised a red striped backing material whilst the others are off white. A handwritten name in pencil can be seen to one pad, tightening cord intact. This helmet may , at one time, have been a post home due to the previous presence of some type of large adhesive label that has left a rectangular patch where it once was . Finally , the leather chinstrap with steel buckles is still fitted , this is in good condition with just a small stress crack on one end.
Overall a stunning piece & historically reminiscent of the varying artistic licence much seen.

Code: 13774