This Quick ID Chart provides a visual guide to identifying German parade and lightweight style helmets worn for ceremonial purposes between 1934 and 1945.  In some cases certain styles were used in earlier years and then later discontinued from standard wear.  Many helmets pictured below were authorized only for use by Officers and Noncommissioned Officers (NCO's).  These were usually available as private purchase items from selected helmet makers and retail shops.  This guide is intended to give only a general overview of the many helmet styles worn by various military and political groups of the Third Reich.  Information on which helmets were worn by a specific organization or military formation, to include specific coloring and insignia, is contained in each of the Information Tracks located in this website.