Original Item. Only One Available. One piece of Imperial German militaria which has become increasingly difficult to authenticate in recent years is the Stirnpanzer, or Brow Plate. The Stirnpanzer has received many nicknames over the years including the Machine Gunner’s Plate, Sniper’s Plate, and Sentry Plate. Due to the high price these plates have brought, they have become increasingly reproduced over the years, and people have, of course, made attempts to artificially age & sell them as originals. This example is what many would refer to as a hen’s tooth, a completely genuine example that retains its “Bell” marking, indicating manufacture by R. Lindenberg A.G. of Remscheid-Hasten, and most of its original strap.

Of the original Stirnpanzers you will come across, about 10% will have remnants of the original strap, and even less will have a working strap. This example retains roughly 90% of its strap, with the buckle completely intact and still functional without rusting. The perforated side of the strap, which originally had thirteen (13) holes for proper affixation to a Stahlhelm, has broken in the middle of its eleventh (11th) hole, meaning it can still be properly strapped onto a Stahlhelm, although given the fragility of the 108-year-old leather, this should be done with extreme caution.

The Stirnpanzer was often paired with the Sappenpanzer Trench armor when utilized in static positions, such as for machine gunners or snipers.

The Stirnpanzer is in fantastic shape overall with the front retaining roughly 80% of its original paint with a heavy amount of darkening and grime. The interior retains roughly 95% of its paint with some wear near the top. The interior right side bears the Bell marking of R. Lindenberg A.G. of Remscheid-Hasten, with 77 stamped beneath it, most likely the lot number.

There is a small dent near the top-middle of the helmet, likely from use. The two slots on each side of the helmet is for affixation to the front of an M1916 Stahlhelm, with the slots fitting onto the ventilation “horns” on each side of the helmet. 

This is an unbelievably scarce piece of Imperial German headgear, likely only beaten out by the elusive Gaede Helmet. This is the first original example we have ever offered, and likely the only one we will have for a very long time, so don’t miss out! Comes ready for further research and display on your M16 Stahlhelm!