This is an authentic Nazi Germany Luftschutz M38 Beaded "Gladiator Style" helmet. The Luftschutz, officially known as Deutscher Luftschutzverband (German Air Protection League), was a voluntary organization established in late 1932 tasked with providing civil air raid protection in areas of large civilian populations. Description/Condition: Three piece, stamped, sheet-steel construction w/an embossed, horizontal, beaded rim between the crown and the visor/neck guard. The visor/neck guard has a semi-circular "ear" cut-out. The front center is emblazoned w/the Luftschutz emblem nearly fully intact & visible. The detailed, silver decal features stylized spread wings with a central oak-leaf sprig and a canted swastika positioned below a scripted banner, "Luftschutz". There are two groups of seven "salt & pepper" ventilation holes to either side of the crown. Contains wear & patina consistent with its age. All three small, flat-head, liner retaining rivets & liner are absent considered in the price of the piece. Maker Mark/Stamp: Underside (Stamped w/size & price decal): "Vertrieb genehmigt gemäß 8 Luftschutzgesetz" (Sales approved in accordance with {Act Code} Air Protection Act) Kopfweite 56 (Head Width 56) Höchstpreis RM 8. - (Maximum Price Reichs Marks 8.00) Helmet Size: 56 Marked (above size/price decal): RL2 - 38/x8 History: The Deutscher Luftschutzverband (German Air Protection League), a voluntary organization established in late 1932 providing civil air raid protection in areas of large civilian populations. Following Hitler's ascension to the the chancellorship, the organization was restructured and placed under the supervision of the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (National Air Ministry) operated by Hermann Göring. On April 29th 1933, they were renamed Reichs Luftschutz Bund or RLB, (National Air Raid Protection League) and given an official national organization status, tasked with all aspects of civil air raid defense. Still a voluntary organization (w/small cadre of paid, full-time, uniformed officials overseeing basic functions), it was made an obligatory service beginning June 1935. "Basic" uniform and equipment items were supplied only to the cadre while all others were required to purchase their outfitting. On 26 September 1938, a specific helmet was introduced that incorporated a raised horizontal "bead" between the visor and crown. Commonly referred to as the "Gladiator" style helmet, they were supplemented with M35, M40 and M42 helmets, also w/the raised horizontal "bead". The Luftschutz would also use varying styles of "captured" helmets. Note: Multiple in stock...Shipped item may not be exactly as appears in the photos - may contain slight variation in color/standard age wear. ----------------------------------------- WW2 (Nazi Germany) Luftschutz (Air Raid Protection) M38 Beaded "Gladiator Style" Helmet $215.00 (Firm) ** Authentic Issue ** Established in 1932 to provide civil air raid protection in areas of large civilian populations. The Luftschutz was placed under the National Air Ministry under the command of Hermann Göring. -----------------------------------------
