Supposed to be saving for W&P next month, but you know how it goes! Bought this one for £35 off fleaBay.
An apple green Heer M35, recovered during agricultural works in Russia. What sets it apart from other relics I’ve seen for sale, and the reason I decided to pick it up, are the decal remnants still visible under the rust. On the left side of the shell, you can just about make out the bottom arm of the swastika from a Heer decal. On the right, and what sold me on it, the red, white and black of the national tricolour.
It’s heavily battle damaged by shrapnel, damage that I sincerely hope wasn’t incurred when the poor devil was wearing it! This includes an impact to the dome, which has cracked the helmet, a few small shrapnel or bullet holes on the left side, and one large impact just behind the tricolour. The latter has passed clean through and punched a hole through the skirt at the back. Remarkably, the rolled edge has held firm. If this had been an M42, I’m sure this lid would have been split into two pieces.
A wonderful historic piece!

I’ve purchased this one with the intention of treating it with oxalic acid. Said acid is currently on its way to me, and as soon as it arrives I’ll be giving it a bath. From what I can see, there is very little corrosion to the steel, only caked and bubbling rust that has spread over the surface. On the inner right hand side of the skirt, it’s already been cleaned away to apply a number. Looking at that area, I’d say I’m in for a pleasant surprise with this one!

Regards, B.B.