Original German WWII 2nd Pattern NSKK Crash Helmet Marked to Motor Brigade Leipzig in Size 56

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice genuine 2nd Pattern NSKK Crash Helmet, officially called the Sturzhelm nach Vorschrift des NSKK (Crash Helmet according to NSKK regulations). It is a molded, smooth, blackened leather helmet with raised, padded, protective bars running horizontally around the helmets bottom edge, and another one running from front to back over the crown top. The type of ventilation featured on these helmet varied over the years, and this example has a single mesh covered vent on each side.

The Front center of the helmet features a second pattern NSKK stylized national eagle, which appears to be of zinc construction, and now shows a lot of surface oxidation and patination. This has removed some of the paint from the N S K K banner at the top, and overall has given it a great dark gray color. The eagle is still held in its correct position, but one of the three integral split pins has broken, the one on the right side wing. It still sits fine on the helmet, however. Helmet has a short blackened leather visor stitched to front and stitched on, extended, blackened, grained, leather, protective side and rear panels. Side panels each have a vertical half-moon shaped, ear cut-out with stitched on closure flaps. These were designed to protect the ears while still allowing for hearing. There are snaps on the front and rear that allow the flaps to be fastened open or closed. The side panels also have extended straps to bottoms which act as the chinstrap.

Interior of the helmet has a tan leather, nine finger liner, which is faintly stamped with size 56. The leather line is in great shape, with all fingers present and supple, though the top securing string is missing. There is no makers information on the inside of the helmet, however it has a clear issue NSKK issue marking from MOTOR BRIGADE LEIPZIG.

Overall the helmet is in good condition, though it definitely has suffered deterioration due to age, as leather unfortunately is not as resilient as metal or other materials. The finish is cracked and crazed in places, and the leather is somewhat delicate in areas. We have not made any attempts to clean or restore the helmet to preserve the patina.

A very nice example of a hard to find helmet, with a fantastic aged look! Ready to display!