Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely service used example of a German WWII Luftwaffe M38 Overseas cap (Schiffchen), as worn by Enlisted men and NCOs (EM-NCO). It definitely has a "been there" look that is impossible to duplicate. The overseas cap, nicknamed in German military slang as "Schiffchen", or literally "little ship" as it resembled an up-turned row-boat, was standard issue for the Luftwaffe for most occasions.

The cap is constructed of the correct Luftwaffe Fliegerblau (Flyer's Blue) blue gray wool exterior, and features a fine embroidered eagle and tri-color cockade sewn to the front. These are only stitched to the outer layer of fabric, which means they were sewn on during production. It features blue gray canvas lining, which shows fading and staining on the interior from use and subsequent cleaning. There are some faded markings on the right side and top, and a name on the left, which looks to read Koch. The cap seems to be rather small, probably around a 56 or 57, and measures about 27cm in length on the exterior.

Overall condition shows wear to the exterior, with a much of the fuzzy "nap" of the fabric removed, except under the flaps on both sides and down the top center seam. It also has had the top tack stitched together at the top, which can help the cap look better when worn.

A lovely service used cap that was "really there", ready to add to your collection!

Side Cap
A side cap is a military cap that can be folded flat when not being worn. It is also known as a garrison cap or flight cap in the United States, wedge cap in Canada, or field service cap in the United Kingdom. In form the side cap is comparable to the glengarry, a folding version of the Scottish military bonnet. It has been associated with various military forces since the middle of the 19th century, as well as various civilian organizations.