Questionable Camos

M45 · Sep 30, 2022

A.E.F. Camouflage “Combat” Helmets

www.usmilitariaforum.com

Walt's little helmet scam reminds me of another, the Sham pain ruins scam. Certain well-knowns partnered with others to churn out counterfeit SS helmets that would be sold as "genuine" to the unwitting German helmet collectors of the world. The division of labor in this "enterprise" was such that one character gathered the helmets and brought them to the house of the forger, who then micro-painted an SS bug on each one.

Of course the C-SS scam was much more elaborate. There were more people involved including authentication by authors, vetting on helmet forums, the "science of XRFacts" proving them "authentic", vet provenance, etc...

Photo No. 76: The cartoonist Walter Disney, who arrived as a Red Cross ambulance driver late in 1918, admitted in a 1963 interview that he received 10 to 15 French francs for each large Croix de Guerre medal he painted on the back of a leather jerkin. Later Disney partnered up with a southerner from Georgia, whose Army nickname was “Cracker”, to churn out counterfeit war trophies in the form of camouflage German helmets that would be sold as “genuine” to the unwitting American Doughboys. The division of labor in their enterprise was that Disney would provide the painting and Cracker would supply, and then “battle damage” the freshly painted helmets so they could be sold as genuine war relics.

M45 · Sep 30, 2022

A 3 color "Normandy" recently posted on WAF. There seems to be some confusion about this one. Some members like it, others do not. Strangely, a liner shot is not available.

This one has the look of a Latvian Connection camo. The interior may show a dark green paint with multiple rust spots and fake liner (classic LCC).

Latvian Connection camos were first discussed years ago and were part of Camos-101, some of the earliest fake camos we learned to spot.

But notice years and years later, these well known camo forums are still confused, as if it is the very first time they've seen it.

Hambone · Oct 1, 2022

M45 said:
A 3 color "Normandy" recently posted on WAF. There seems to be some confusion about this one. Some members like it, others do not. Strangely, a liner shot is not available.

This one has the look of a Latvian Connection camo. The interior may show a dark green paint with multiple rust spots and fake liner (classic LCC).

Latvian Connection camos were first discussed years ago and were part of Camos-101, some of the earliest fake camos we learned to spot.

But notice years and years later, these well known camo forums are still confused, as if it is the very first time they've seen it.

It depends who among them own / have owned / have sold / or will sell something, and their status in the waftard hierarchy as to whether they are original or not and what comments are allowed at any given time.

M45 · Oct 6, 2022

RESERVED (sb) M35 Heer Camo, Former Netted - SS-Steel

This SE64 Heer Helmet, #1738, is an M35 that had been reissued, then brush painted camouflage and worn with a net at the same time. The colors are ordinance tan, brown, and "bluish" grass green, applied thickly in a predominantly vertical pattern. The paint shows the outline of the net, which...

www.ss-steel-inc.com

M35 Heer Camo, Former Netted

SKU: Mhcmcam35net
$3,250.00

This SE64 Heer Helmet, #1738, is an M35 that had been reissued, then brush painted camouflage and worn with a net at the same time. The colors are ordinance tan, brown, and “bluish” grass green, applied thickly in a predominantly vertical pattern. The paint shows the outline of the net, which was likely on the helmet when it was camo’d, but is long gone. Even the cinch mark at the top is visible, as are lines of paint that show where the net stuck in the paint. The liner is named. A classic Heer camo with lots of service use but no abuse. A good one for the discriminating camo collection. COA accompanies.

I had envisioned myself taking a break from posting and critiquing questionable camos, but they won't let me !
After the nine years of work I have done discussing questionable camos, I sometimes think the message is not getting through after seeing something like this.

This camo does not even fit a WWII German military theme. I mean really, AQUA-green, BABY-SH1T-brown ??? Indeed !

Yes, I see it had a net or a half wire basket during painting and then it was removed. WOOOOWWWW !!!! A ghosted wire/ghosted net !! That in itself sends the price through the roof.

This is what is being sold by dealers for authentic prices and being taken seriously by well-known helmet forums.

an M35 that had been reissued - a red flag right off the get-go. Reissued helmets are some of the cheapest helmets available and prime targets for "upgrades" .

If I was in a theater watching a war movie and this helmet appeared, I think all of my root-beer and malt balls would come right back up onto the fellow in front of me.

Hambone · Oct 6, 2022

There is virtually nothing about that kamo that I like. Looks like the paint is still drying under those lights.

M45 · Dec 3, 2022

Tan Afrika style M38 camo. Well liked on WAF.

Some problems with this one, the camo paint appears to be very rich, not dulled oxidized or faded as commonly seen on known originals. It looks like a recent Humbrell style spray paint.

Suspicious parallel and repetitive scratch marks. A good candidate for paint testing.

Strange non-matching DAK style paint on left spanner bolt.

mauser202 · Dec 4, 2022

M45 said:
Tan Afrika style M38 camo. Well liked on WAF.

Some problems with this one, the camo paint appears to be very rich, not dulled oxidized or faded as commonly seen on known originals. It looks like a recent Humbrell style spray paint.

Suspicious parallel and repetitive scratch marks. A good candidate for paint testing.

Strange non-matching DAK style paint on left spanner bolt.

Is this the one that Sold for 26k US at auction? I don’t know if it’s real or not, but that is a tone of cash. I would need some type of provenance back to WW2 if I was going to buy if, not that I have that kind of spare cash

M45 · Dec 9, 2022

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »

www.lux-military-antiques.com

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »

A choice M1940 Luftwaffe two-tones spray camouflage former chicken wire combat helmet. The helmet is a skirt marked « Q62 » with a lot number of « DN379 ». The helmet's exterior features a vivid and contrasting two-tone green and light tan spray applied camouflage colors. The former shadow created by the placement and removal of the chicken wire is clearly visible. A light amount of wear is present but overall in excellent condition. The split pins remain intact and tightly secure with all their camouflage finish in place. Matte to the touch and over 98% still present. The interior is in excellent and complete condition. Retains a very nice condition leather liner and stamped « 55 » for size along one of the tongues. Drawstring is present. Leather chinstrap is attached and shortened to the wearer's size. Found in Denmark not too long ago and fresh to the market, retains a tag with the located and area still attached. Overall a really nice and very attractive Luftwaffe camouflage combat helmet. EU 4475.00 euro

Another ghosted 'chicken wire' fresh camo! It looks like that wire was for a giant chicken.

I'm not sure people realize how easy it is to make loads of money in the German helmet camo collecting field. A run of the mill used ND blue-gray Luftwaffe helmet in size 62cm could conceivably sell for around $447 USD between collectors. Find a piece of giant cluck-wire, place it over said helmet, and then spray with a two-tone yellow/yellow green camo. Then remove said wire. After drying, perform a slight rubbing of the crown to simulate wear, and then increase the base price roughly 10X or about 1000% to about 4475 euros. Come up with a good story about how it was found, and viola! there you are!

M45 · Dec 9, 2022

Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M 38 für Fallschirmjäger Afrikakorps mit 2 Abzeichen - German Air Force 1933-45 - III. Reich: visor hats, steel helmets, overseas caps - Military Antiques

Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M 38 für Fallschirmjäger Afrikakorps mit 2 Abzeichen Es handelt sich hierbei um eine Fertigung um 1939/40. Die dunkelgrüne Originallackierung wurde mit sandfarbener Tarnlackierung überlackiert, die Abzeichen wurden ausgespart.

www.weitze.com

Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M 38 für Fallschirmjäger Afrikakorps mit 2 Abzeichen

Es handelt sich hierbei um eine Fertigung um 1939/40. Die dunkelgrüne Originallackierung wurde mit sandfarbener Tarnlackierung überlackiert, die Abzeichen wurden ausgespart. Die Tarnlackierung ist noch 65 % erhalten, darunter die dunkelgrüne Originallackierung. Links der LW-Adler 2. Modell zu 80 % erhalten, rechts das Nationalwappen zu 90 % erhalten. Die Helmglocke innen gestempelt "ET 68" sowie hinten "3548" , komplett mit Futter am Aluminiumring und dem grauen Schaumstoffpolster sowie dem original Kinnriemen, die Stempelung im Futter "Kopfweite Gr. 56, Stahlhaube Gr. 68" sowie Hersteller "Karl Heisler Berlin C2 D.R.G.M.", hinten im Nacken ein Teil weiß lackiert für den Trägernamen, nicht mehr zu erkennen. Der Ledersturmriemen ist noch vollständig erhalten. Deutlich getragen, Zustand 2-.

Der Helm war US Kriegsbeute im Jahr 1943. Ex-Sammlung Bill Shea, USA.
Ein Helm mit starker Ausstrahlung.

437978 € 25.000,00

Luftwaffe steel helmet M 38 for paratroopers Afrika Korps with 2 badges
This is a production around 1939/40. The original dark green paintwork was repainted with a sand-colored camouflage paint finish, the insignia were left out. The camouflage paintwork is still 65% intact, including the original dark green paintwork. 80% of the LW eagle 2nd model preserved on the left, 90% of the national coat of arms preserved on the right. The helmet bell is stamped on the inside "ET 68" and "3548" on the back, complete with the lining on the aluminum ring and the gray foam padding as well as the original chin strap, the stamping on the lining "Head width size 56, steel hood size 68" and manufacturer "Karl Heisler Berlin C2 D.R.G.M.", at the back of the neck a part painted white for the name of the wearer, no longer recognizable. The leather storm strap is still intact. Significantly worn, condition 2-.

The helmet was US war booty in 1943. Ex-Bill Shea collection, USA.
A helmet with a strong charisma.
437978
€ 25,000.00

M45 · Jan 22, 2023

WAF camo.

"Many are STILL afraid of minty camo helmets: both the camo and the core helmet. Which to me is bizarre.
That's why fake camos with lots of wear and rust, to both the camo and the core helmet, sell so easily. And are the focus of the fakers. As seen on several FB groups; but one in particular. (I hope he's not referring to THIS forum
After several visits to that museum, I have yet to see a fake on display. - Willi Z.

Geeezus....just let me get my bearings....for my head to stop spinning....ohhhhhhhh

What is bizarre is how anyone could believe for one second that this exotic freshie has even a remote chance of authenticity. Brand new, untouched, unworn in combat, a museum helmet.

Hambone · Jan 22, 2023

M45 said:
WAF camo.

"Many are STILL afraid of minty camo helmets: both the camo and the core helmet. Which to me is bizarre.
That's why fake camos with lots of wear and rust, to both the camo and the core helmet, sell so easily. And are the focus of the fakers. As seen on several FB groups; but one in particular. (I hope he's not referring to THIS forum
After several visits to that museum, I have yet to see a fake on display. - Willi Z.

Geeezus....just let me get my bearings....for my head to stop spinning....ohhhhhhhh

What is bizarre is how anyone could believe for one second that this exotic freshie has even a remote chance of authenticity. Brand new, untouched, unworn in combat, a museum helmet.

The only thing more ridiculous than that helmet IMHO is Willi Z. Looks like something a teenager did. In my opinion it’s probably owned / sold / trafficked by some waftard VIP. It was always my opinion that their helmet blessings were more geared to WHO than WHAT and their standards are situational and relative. It’s what happens when you stamp out and censor differing opinions. IMHO, they function like Democrats and Covidians.

M45 · Feb 5, 2023

Original helmets | German Helmets Inc

www.germanhelmetsinc.com

Item 946 M35 Luftwaffe Double decal camouflage helmet

This is an M35 Quist Luftwaffe helmet of 1938 vintage. The decals have both been covered by the three-color spray camouflage but they are faintly visible in relief if held in the right light. The helmet is camouflaged with typical vehicle paint; presumably by a spray-gun which would be present at any field vehicle workshop. The three color finish has no added texture and has just the right appearance of camouflage which is sprayed over a factory applied M35 smooth finish. Judging from the layout of the paint, the helmet was first sprayed over the exterior with a base-coat of tan. When that was done, apparently the chinstrap was poking out from under the rim of the helmet and was hit by over-spray. The exterior was subsequently painted in spots with brown and green. The chinstrap itself is an L.B.A. marked brown leather example. Presumably dated 1938 but the maker mark is almost completely obscured. The helmet has no dome acceptance stamp which is the case with many Quist produced helmets of 1937-1939. The interior of the helmet shell shows the typical shade of finish used by Quist; being very gray.. The liner is intact and sound with moderate wear. The chinstrap is without doubt, original to the helmet. This camo helmet has very vivid colors which show great contrast making it a “top shelf” example by any standard. $5850.00ON HOLD

"Many are STILL afraid of minty camo helmets: both the camo and the core helmet. Which to me is bizarre.
That's why fake camos with lots of wear and rust, to both the camo and the core helmet, sell so easily. And are the focus of the fakers. As seen on several FB groups; but one in particular.
After several visits to that museum, I have yet to see a fake on display. - Willi Z.

Many are STILL not afraid of minty camo helmets, which to me is bizarre. The 2K-4K typical price for these in the past has increased, now approaching 6K. I'm wondering why this particular camo is selling for $5850 but the M40 SD Luft camo with decal showing is only $3450 ? $2400 less. Is it because the 3-color has one of those little interesting features that collectors LOVE to see? I'm referring to the overspray on the chinstrap.

DaveDavis · Feb 6, 2023

If you can buff a turd until it glows someone will buy it.......

M45 · Feb 18, 2023

WAF desert tan/sand cluck wire half-basket camo. Seems to be well liked there and is not surprising.
No mention of where it came from (again, not surprising). So where has this thing been hiding for the last 78 years ? Not even a MENTION of vets ?
A "dream helmet" for those who collect DAK/tropical gear, but is it authentic ?

Niblet · Feb 19, 2023

I concur....it seems most Camo collectors have more dollars than sense
Surprised Perry Floyd isnt all over this one

M45 · Feb 25, 2023

ww2 German M-42 helmet. Multi camo with metal wire. Size 64. | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for ww2 German M-42 helmet. Multi camo with metal wire. Size 64. at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

ww2 German M-42 helmet with multi color camouflage paint and metal wire net around. With the name of the soldier "Olt. K. Braun". Helmet is size 62. Manufacture stamps on the shell is Q64 and DN541. In the dome present oval stamp. Liner inside is size 57 with stamp on the band and size stamp on the leather. Leather is still soft, condition is good, no cracks, no damages. Please see photos for more details. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Sweet Mother of Heaven, LOOK at this thing!!
If you think you are good at authenticating camos in this day and age, look at this one. IMO this one is fabulous, done on an original Q M42 shell. I know and you know it's fake (LATVIA) but it is very difficult to see many obvious problems with it. The liner looks a bit fishy and maybe the dome stamp, but this one was professionally done, like so many are today. Nothing at all like the amateur fakes done by an acquaintance of mine in the 1970s. If 99% of all camos today are not fake, then the amount of fakes are rapidly approaching that number.

My general advice to the collecting community; stay away from camos until a rapid, cheap forensic testing of the paint becomes available to detect modern paint compounds. The days of relying on gut feelings for accuracy are long gone.

UPDATE: Winning bid US $1,163.00

Niblet · Feb 25, 2023

Niblet · Feb 28, 2023

I get so sick of seeing "The RonR Collection" I could puke,,, all the phony baloney stuff in there is hilarious, sad that everyone thinks he's the godfather of helmet collecting,
someone sold that oldtimer quite a yarn..
:barf:

Niblet · Feb 28, 2023

Have you guys seen this trainwreck? wow,,,,has the collecting community gone this far downhill?
wow

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- Posted January 4
I think we all read the disasterous topic on WAF , I do not think there is anymore to say.

M45 · Mar 23, 2023

Ebay: Riga Latvia ebay handle: ssovetsk
ww2 German M-42 helmet. Size 64 with Normandy camo paint and metal wire for camo. Manufacture stamps on the shell is hkp64 and 3428. Helmet is named to "Oberl. Fruehzuf 1*3712". Leather on the liner is soft, and condition is very good with size stamp on it. Accepted PayPal payments. Please ask about shipping in you country. The item will be sent by registered air mail 1st class, within a two days after reception of payment. Shipping and handling $30.

Another nice Latvian-Connection Camo using an original hkp64 M42 shell.

Questionable Camos

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M35 Heer Camo, Former Netted​

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M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark » M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark » www.lux-military-antiques.com

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »​

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Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M 38 für Fallschirmjäger Afrikakorps mit 2 Abzeichen​

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Item 946 M35 Luftwaffe Double decal camouflage helmet​

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M35 Heer Camo, Former Netted

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »

www.lux-military-antiques.com

M40 Luftwaffe former chicken-wire camouflage two-tones combat helmet, « woodwork find / Denmark »

Luftwaffe Stahlhelm M 38 für Fallschirmjäger Afrikakorps mit 2 Abzeichen

Original helmets | German Helmets Inc

www.germanhelmetsinc.com

Item 946 M35 Luftwaffe Double decal camouflage helmet

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