German WWII M42 Combat Helmet with Field-Made Cover

This is an exceptional and evocative example of a German WWII M42 combat helmet, complete with a rare, field-made helmet cover—a testament to frontline ingenuity and adaptation. Unlike standard-issue camouflage covers, this piece features a plain canvas covering, likely repurposed from another garment, with visible double-seam construction that mirrors improvised German covers seen during both world wars.

The cover consists of three major fabric panels, carefully stitched together with four intermediate lines to contour the shape of the helmet. Notably, stress wear and rust imprinting on the crown area confirm the cover has remained affixed since the wartime period. At the rim, degradation from decades of tension against the helmet’s sharp M42 edge provides further authenticity. The original drawstring remains intact, securing the cover in place, and gentle inspection reveals a non-decaled helmet beneath.

Internally, the helmet retains its original M40-style leather liner with a zinc band. Though the leather shows age-related shrinkage and two liner tongues are missing, the remaining structure—including the drawstring and chinstrap—is original. The chinstrap remains supple and complete, a rare find on helmets of this vintage.

This helmet is a classic battlefield relic—unrestored and rich with period character. Field-made covers such as this are documented in wartime photographs, often crafted by soldiers themselves for concealment and functionality. An outstanding and historically significant piece, ideal for collectors of combat-worn German WWII headgear or frontline improvisations.

Ref; 90576