M1940 Helmets

The M1940 helmet first appeared in March 1940 following a redesign of the manufacturing process which now incorporated more automated stamping techniques.  The first helmets issued received only one gold colored decal on the left side of the helmet.  In 1943 this factory applied decal was discontinued in order to comply with orders issued by the Supreme Commander of the Wehrmacht.  Helmets of this type are characteristic of having rolled edges and stamped air vents that are embossed directly into the steel shell.  Paint configurations range from medium to very dark field grey in color with various degrees of texture. Some helmets also exhibit a "slate grey" color that is either field or factory applied.  This color often has the appearance of being more gray then green.  In some rare cases, Kriegsmarine helmets have also been observed where the factory paint finish has been over painted in a light to medium "battleship grey" color.  It is presumed that these helmets were used exclusively on German naval vessels.  The interior of the helmet remained smooth painted unless it was factory or field modified and then re-issued.  Most M1940 helmets received the second pattern zinc liner band system.  However, those introduced in 1940 and early 1941 often have the first model aluminum liner bands.  These are appropriately date marked between 1940 and 1943.

See More Photos of a M1940 Naval Helmet

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This Information Track provides historical facts pertaining to M1940 Kriegsmarine Helmets from 1940-1945.  Individual links related to this subject are outlined below.