Luftschutz Helmet (Gladiator)

The Luftschutz helmet was the standard issue protective headgear for German civil air defense personnel during World War II. Often referred to by collectors as the "Gladiator" helmet due to its distinctive shape, it was designed for protection against shrapnel and falling debris during Allied air raids on the German home front. These helmets were not intended for frontline combat but were worn by air raid wardens, rescue teams, company firefighters (Betrieb Feuerwehr), and, late in the war, by Volkssturm (home guard) units. The design featured a wider, flared rim compared to standard military Stahlhelme (steel helmets) and ventilation holes in the crown. Early versions were typically made from three separate pieces of steel riveted together to reduce production costs and weight. Later in the war (around 1944), the design was simplified to a single, stamped steel sheet, with cheaper materials like vinyl or cloth replacing the original leather liners. They were usually painted a semi-gloss dark blue or black. A prominent white or silver decal featuring a winged swastika emblem encircled by the word "Luftschutz" (Air Protection) was typically applied to the front of the helmet.

This item:
A very nice used helmet, complete and not de-nazified decal for a change... Well maker marked, take a look at the liner string, a nice time period!