Rare German WWI Trench Armor Set (Sappenpanzer and Stahlhelm M1916), ca. 1916 – 1918.
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Lot 77

Rare German WWI Trench Armor Set (Sappenpanzer and Stahlhelm M1916), ca. 1916 – 1918.

Estimate: EUR 1300.00 - 1500.00

Starting Bid: EUR 1300.00

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Item details

Description

Rare German WWI Trench Armor Set (Sappenpanzer and Stahlhelm M1916), ca 1916 – 1918. A rare and complete example of the Sappenpanzer steel body armor issued to German stormtroopers (Sturmtruppen) and sentries during the latter years of the First World War, accompanied by an original Stahlhelm Model 1916 combat helmet. The armor consists of four articulated plates designed to cover the torso and lower abdomen, constructed from thick steel and retaining traces of the original field-gray paint. The overlapping plates are connected by internal leather straps, allowing limited flexibility while providing protection from shrapnel and small arms fire at long range. Some surface oxidation. The accompanying M1916 helmet retains its original paint finish and early pattern steel liner band with worn leather liner. The Sappenpanzer was introduced around 1916 for troops exposed to heavy fire in forward positions - snipers, machine-gunners, and sentries. Combined with the Stahlhelm, it represented one of the earliest systematic uses of body armor in modern warfare. Although effective against shrapnel and low-velocity rounds, its weight (around 9 - 12 kg) limited mobility, restricting its use primarily to static trench duty. Armor height: approx. 74 cm. Helmet: standard M16. Condition: Good, unrestored condition with original finish.

Condition

Good condition.

Dimensions

Height 74 cm / 29.1 in