WWII German Luftschutz Gladiator Helmet – Named “RABAS” – Complete Liner

Offered here is an original WWII German Luftschutz (Air Raid Protection) helmet, commonly referred to by collectors as the “Gladiator” style helmet. These helmets were issued to German civil defense personnel responsible for firefighting, rescue operations, and maintaining order during Allied bombing raids.

This example retains its original dark blue finish with the Luftschutz winged decal and swastika to the front, which remains clearly visible. The helmet shows honest wear from age and use, including light scratches and handling marks, but overall displays very well.

The helmet retains its original leather liner and chinstrap, along with the original Luftschutz approval label inside the shell reading:

“Vertrieb genehmigt gemäß § 8 Luftschutzgesetz”

The liner is marked Kopfweite 56 (size 56) and the helmet shell is stamped RL2-38/28, a standard Luftschutz manufacturing code.

Inside the helmet is a handwritten name reading “RABAS,” likely identifying the original wearer, adding a personal historical element to the piece.

Overall this is a solid, complete example of a WWII German Luftschutz helmet, ideal for collectors of WWII militaria or German home-front artifacts.

Specifications

• Country: Germany
• Organization: Luftschutz (Civil Air Defense)
• Period: World War II
• Model: Luftschutz “Gladiator” helmet
• Finish: Original dark blue paint
• Decal: Luftschutz winged emblem present
• Liner: Original leather liner
• Chinstrap: Present
• Size: 56
• Markings: RL2-38/28 code and Luftschutz approval label
• Named interior: “RABAS”

Highlights

• Original WWII German Luftschutz helmet
• Large Luftschutz winged decal
• Complete liner and chinstrap
• Original interior approval label
• Named to “RABAS”
• Great WWII display piece