Need help identifying an alleged German "Nazi" helmet

Hello all,

I'm new to the forums. I've really enjoyed reading some of the articles posted so I decided it's time to see what discussion I can stir up on my own.

Attached you will find a helmet I'm needing some help identifying. The helmet in the following attached pictures was given to me by a veteran. I was told that it was an authentic Nazi helmet used in WWII, and from my untrained eye it appears legitimate. Upon receiving it I was little skeptical but, as the story goes, "nothing ventured; nothing lost." Can anyone identify this relic? Is it actually from WWII? Any assistance is much appreciated.

Even if it turns out not to be an authentic helmet I will continue to keep it since it was a nice gesture from a friend.

Edit: I used imageshack.com to host the pictures since they were too large to attach, I hope it's not a problem.


http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/6923/20110115173743423.jpg

ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting

ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting

ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting

ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting

 

I'm pretty sure this is a helmet from the Spanish Civil War. German made but sold to the Spanish, looks ok to me - but will need a helmet expert's confirmation!

 

I must admit it does look very early about 1935

 

Interesting. After a new direction of research it appears to be an old M-35 purchased by the Spanish for the Spanish Civil War. I'm not 100% certain.

http://www.germanhelmet.com/abouthelmet.html Near the end of the page.

 

With oval open rivets and plain paralel rivets like that it is a Spanish helmet. Thye are quite common in Europe and easy to find. Many people who can't afford German helmets will buy a Spanish one until they get a German one. These helmets sell for about 100 euros back here.

 

Spanish M-42/Modelo Z steel helmet from World War II (1939-1945). first issued in 1943. similar to the German M-42 in style. metal hook is used to attach a badge to the helmet. has a three pad typical m30 leather liner fastened to the shell by seven rivets. and a thin leather chinstrap.

 

Wouldn't you say this one was the early pattern from the later 30s?

Edit: Just realised you are quite right - looks like an early modelo!

 

Thank you everyone for solving this little mystery.