This is an original German M16 steel helmet from the First World War. The shell is made of steel with the characteristic outward vent lugs, which also served as fittings for the additional frontal armor plate (Stirnpanzer). The surface retains traces of the factory finish with an overpainted camouflage in the so-called Buntfarbenanstrich style — the typical multi-color pattern introduced in 1916, featuring green, ochre, and brown segments divided by black lines. The paint shows natural wear, confirming its authenticity.

Inside, the original leather liner, complete with its three leather pads and metal band, is preserved, along with the chinstrap. On the rear skirt of the shell, the stamped marking “G62” is visible, indicating the manufacturer and the shell size (62). Additional factory markings are also present on the interior.

Helmets of this type were introduced to the German Army in 1916, replacing the earlier leather Pickelhaube. Thanks to their strength and protective qualities, the M16 became a symbol of the German soldier of the First World War and served as the foundation for the entire line of steel helmets leading up to the M35 of the Second World War.