I have not encountered a brace like this before.  Sorry I can't help.  

For "WehrMike95"...   That display cabinet is awesome! Dining room?  Wow.  That is super extra awesome!  Did you buy the cabinet "off the rack", or have it custom built? I see the light in the top of the interior.  Nice touch.

Great topic.  I look forward to watching this thread.    Steve 

Thanks Danimal.  It looked good to me, but I know there are alot of fakes.  I just wasn't sure because of the code.  I researched the internet for a couple of hours trying to find that code with no luck. Maybe it is a rare manufacturer of some sort. 

Hello, I can't help with the code.  But I see no reason to think this is a repo.  I have noticed a trend of Eastern front 'water' or 'bunker' relics making their way west.  I picked up what looks like a water find potato masher just a few months back and the condition looks similar to yours.  The one I picked up was cheap and looks good in a display without spending big bucks.  Wartime 'souvenired' potato mashers are just crazy prices.

Nice collection and nice displays.  Looks nice in that cabinet.  I really like the push plate.  I snoozed on one I saw several months ago for sale.  I got sidetracked at a show and the dealer left by the time I remembered...  they are pretty scarce...

Nice.  Rich A. in Pa.

Can anyone here help?  

Yah, you can never be to carful when it comes to painted helmets. This just seems like a nice helmet was ruined to try to fool others, which is a shame…

thank you for the info. it is very true what is said when it comes to painted helmets----------------- be careful. TO MANY FAKES.

From:  TM-E 30-451, 1 March 1945 (U. S. Army).