Original Imperial German WWI M16 Helmet Shell With Original Paint Size 66
An original Imperial German WWI Model 1916 steel helmet shell, manufactured by Eisenhüttenwerke Thale, as denoted by the clear “E.T.66” stamping. This example is a desirable large size 66 shell and retains a strong amount of its original factory-applied finish.
EXTERIOR
The shell retains approximately 75% of its original field-gray factory paint, which has naturally toned and aged to a darker greenish-brown hue in areas, giving it an attractive and untouched combat-used appearance. The surface shows honest service wear, light abrasions, and scattered age patina consistent with wartime use and long-term storage.
Of particular interest is the faint rectangular “ghosting” visible on the front, consistent with where a paper shipping label was once affixed. This is a well-known characteristic of helmets brought home by U.S. soldiers as war souvenirs.
The shell remains structurally solid with no signs of post-war modification. Vent lugs are intact and correct for the M16 pattern.
INTERIOR
The interior retains approximately 90% of its original factory paint, showing strong preservation overall. There are localized areas of surface oxidation in the dome, consistent with long-term storage and age. This rusting appears stable and does not detract from the integrity of the shell.
The rear skirt/flare features a faint handwritten name, likely that of the original German soldier, adding desirable historical character. The dome is stamped “R1874”, indicating the production lot number.
The liner, chinstrap, and split pins are no longer present.
CONDITION
Overall, this is a very good to excellent example of a WWI M16 helmet shell. It displays honest age, strong original paint retention inside and out, and desirable period characteristics including the named interior and souvenir label remnants.
A solid, untouched shell with excellent display appeal, restoration and strong collector value.
