WW1 M16 German helmet repainted. Partial liner left.  This artifact is over 100 years old.

Between 1916 and 1918 the Germans produced three types of helmets. They are known today by collectors as the M16, M18, and M18 cut-out. M16 shells are often called M17s. The M17 designation is actually referring to the liner, not the shell. In 1917 the Germans changed from using a liner band made from leather to steel. The newer design also called for liner pads made from chromed leather instead of vegetable tanned leather, which held up better in the constant moister of the trenches.