German WWI M1916 Camouflage Steel Helmet Shell, Unit Marked, Named
This item is listed for historical interest only. It was listed on our site previously but has been sold and is no longer available for purchase.
Sold for: $695.00

Original era manufacture. A standard WWI German M1916 steel helmet with a wonderful, hand applied camouflage finish. The maker and size markings are blurred, however the helmet measures 9.25 inches side to side. The exterior of the helmet displays a very clear, thick, hand painted camouflage scheme in green and ochre with wide black dividing lines. Handpainted on the inside rear of the neckskirt is Gefr. Steinke in clear Gothic lettering, and below 6/454 (6th company, IR 454).During WWI, IR 454 served with the 235th Infantry Division. Raised in January 1917, it entered the line in March of that year in the area of St. Quentin, it suffered heavy losses in April 1917. It served in Ypres in Belgium in July 1917, again suffering heavy losses. The Allies rated it as a mediocre unit in offensive capabilities, two of the officers of the 456th regiment ( a sister regiment of the 454th) were relieved from duty in disgrace. In 1918 its active service was in the Armentieres sector, were it was commended by the Kaiser. Rated as a third class division in 1918.