Original Waffen SS M42 Single Decal Helmet EF66 Normandy Barn Find
This is an original Waffen SS M42 Single Decal Helmet, manufactured by Emaillierwerke Fulda (EF) in size 66. Fresh to the collecting market, this helmet was discovered in a barn in the Normandy countryside of France and has never previously been part of a collection.
The helmet retains its original late-war fieldgray factory finish with an attractive untouched "barn find" appearance. Years of storage have produced an even layer of age, oxidation, and surface rust throughout the exterior, giving the helmet exceptional character while preserving its honest, as-found condition. All three split are still there.
The left side retains its original Waffen SS runic decal, which displays the characteristics EF manufactured SS decals. Despite age and scattered paint loss, the decal remains well defined with good visibility, making it an appealing display example.
The interior retains its original liner band and heavily weather worn leather liner. Due to decades of poor storage, the leather has become extremely fragile with significant deterioration and loss. Most of the original interior paint has been consumed by rust, likely the result of the helmet having been stored upside down for many years, allowing moisture to collect inside the shell.
Written on the remaining leather is what appears to be the soldier's surname, possibly "Bön", with additional letters no longer legible due to the deteriorated condition of the liner. While the full name cannot be positively identified, the surviving inscription adds additional character and history to the helmet.
Included with the helmet is a French WWII-era leather chinstrap, which was found attached to the helmet exactly as discovered in the barn and was most likely a wartime replacement.
Overall, this is an honest and completely untouched Normandy barn find that has never been cleaned or restored. A desirable EF66 Waffen SS M42 single decal helmet with a good display appeal.
