German WWI M18 Ear Cut-Out Helmet

A scarce and highly sought-after example of the M18 ear cut-out helmet, one of the rarest German combat helmet variants of World War I. Produced in small numbers, these helmets were designed to improve hearing and comfort for troops using field telephones or other communication equipment. This example retains much of its original flocked finish—a special non-reflective coating intended to break up glare from sunlight—particularly strong on the lower half of the bowl, with the crown showing natural wear revealing the base surface.

Stamped E.T. 64, as were all examples of this model, the helmet is complete with its original M18 steel liner band and white leather pads (three inner horsehair pads now absent), as well as the original drawstring. The interior crown bears the stamp ‘R 1848 N’. Fitted with its correct carbine-style chinstrap, featuring the sprung metal closure clip. An exceptional and seldom-seen piece for the advanced German helmet collection.