Thank you

The helmet was actually designed by the Germans during WWII as a replacement for the M-42 but was too late to be put into production before the end of the war. The East Germans used the old design and the early ones have a WWII style liner. These early ones are fairly hard to find and will bring a premium the later ones not so much. I think there are still a lot of the later ones still around it is just that the dealers don't put them out and waist table space because they are not worth much and there is little interest.

Yes, it appears from these pictures that the decal was on there for some time and then painted around.  Not sure why an army helmet would be painted black, though.   Steve 

Whether or not that is a reproduction decal you have a great looking helmet.  I’m no expert but I think the decal is real. The condition seems to match the helmet age.

Hello!?!?!

I really appreciate the feedback I received from all who provided input regarding the Katana I purchased. Presenting an item to forum members was backwards. I didnt spend much on it & received great input. Now that my ability to identify an NCO Katana I find I can't afford one (right now). Ya'll demonstrated the strength & level of knowledge forums like this bring to the table! 

On the rank insignia, it is determined that they are post war aluminum made types (from the chinese militaria group on facebook).

Is that design above the 221 a Nazi Eagle proof mark?   The e means it's a Herman Kohler "e" Late War part? Haven't found one like that with the eagle stamp yet.

Nice collection. I collect Legion Condor, so I'm partial to the LC plaque in the last photo 👍

Ugliest helmet ever made. I think the Soviet’s purposely made them for the Germans as a constant reminder to the Germans that Germany lost the war. 

That's great, just what i wanted to know. Vielen dank!

It's part of a vietnam era lot of stuff. I thought it might be a blank round but the Google Lens was bringing up foreign ammo links.  Could be. Thanks.