An original German steel helmet Model 1916 (M16), as used during the First World War. The shell is made of steel with the characteristic outward vent lugs on the sides, which also served as mounts for the additional frontal armor plate (Stirnpanzer). The surface retains a significant amount of its original factory-applied field green paint.

The interior features the early liner system: a metal band with three leather pads connected by a drawstring. Original chinstrap are still present, which is rarely encountered. On the left skirt of the shell, the manufacturer’s stamp “G62” is clearly visible, indicating the maker and shell size (62).

Helmets of this type were the first mass-produced steel combat helmets adopted by the German Army, marking a turning point in military equipment during the First World War, which replaced the vulnerable leather Pickelhaube. Thanks to their robust design and protective qualities, the M16 became the prototype for later models, including the M17, M18, and the interwar variations.