Between 1940 and 1941 many helmets used by the German Army (Heer) were refurbished for field combat use.  Some of the helmets refurbished during this time period included pre-war (1935-1939) double decal World War I model Austrian helmets.  When refitted, the helmets were given a new "second pattern" zinc liner band and new split rivets bearing the darker, textured paint that was being used on M1940 factory produced helmets.  When examined, every helmet with this configuration tends to have a liner band dated between 1940 and 1943.  Both decal insignia were allowed to remain on the helmets despite regulations that the National tri-colored shields be removed.  It is believed that Austrian helmets, such as the one photographed below, were intended for use by rear area training camps and reserve troops.  When in 1943 these reserve troops were mobilized for transfer to the front, helmets of this type were taken into the combat zone still bearing pre-war paint schemes and double decals.  The helmet shown below was a souvenir captured in Italy by a US serviceman.

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