Légion Wallonie helmet

ET66, #4511. Retains 95-98% of original apple green painting, almost 100% of WH eagle and 95-98% of hand painted belgian national colors shield. Size 58. Hand painted owner's name 'R.Hers'. Very nice and soft liner's leather. 1940 dated chin strap. Exceptional item from the Belgian Legion in the Wehrmacht (Infanterie-Bataillon 373 der Wehrmacht)in VGC. Museum piece ! See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walloon_Legion

| historical background |

The Model 35 helmet (M35) was introduced in 1935 as part of the rearmament of Germany and quickly became the standard issue helmet for the armed forces, including the Heer and the Luftwaffe. Recognized for its well-balanced form, rolled edges, and separate ventilation bushings, it represents a significant development in German combat helmet design. From the early stages of World War II, the M35 established itself as a benchmark, combining manufacturing quality, protection, and a distinctive visual identity.

Manufactured between 1935 and 1940, the M35 was deployed across all theatres of war and branches, with variations linked to manufacturers, production batches, and service allocation. Original examples display a wide range of configurations, including coded shell markings, branch-specific decals (Heer, Luftwaffe), factory or field-applied paint finishes, and natural service patina. These characteristics are now key elements in authentication and classification within the collecting field.

From a historical and technical perspective, the M35 features a high-quality pressed steel shell, rolled edges for increased strength and comfort, and early-style separate ventilation bushings. This design was later simplified on subsequent models (M40, M42), positioning the M35 as a transitional and highly significant piece in the evolution of German helmets. As a result, it remains a cornerstone item for serious collectors of WWII militaria.