Item Description
Original Item: On first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Afrikakorps infantry were issued with the traditional European sun helmet known as Tropische Kopfbedeckung (Tropical headgear), of the type known to the British forces as the solar topi (or topee). In the German case, these were made of pith, had prominent ventilation holes in the crown, were khaki in color and bore two metal shields; on the right the national colors and on the left the German eagle. There were several models made, with the first having cotton outer covering made of fabric sewn together. This is the second model, with a felt covering.
This particular example is in very good lightly used condition, with all parts intact and in good shape, showing no signs of abuse or major wear. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well, with just a bit of a dent in the top around the vent. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is present and intact as well. The original chin strap is intact and supple, showing some minor finish wear, though there is a repair on the right side using some glue and leather. The green leather trim is slightly worn on the edges and does a bit of flaking on the sides and bottom. The two brass badges are now well-patinated, missing some of the original paint, which gives them a great aged patina.
The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering intact, which is not felt like many examples we see. There is a bit of puckering, so it may have been exposed to water. The leather sweatband is in very good condition, and supple, showing a bit of light staining as well. It is embossed with M in a shield on the exterior, while the underside is marked with size 57 (faint) and a 1942 date. This is a maker marking we have seen before, which has unfortunately not been identified. It also has some post war stamps such as GERMANY on sweatband, from when many of these were exported as surplus after the war. The red felt inner lining is in very good condition, though the inner fitting is a bit oxidized.
This will make a fantastic addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection!
- This product is available for international shipping. Shipping not available to: Australia, France, or Germany
- Due to legal restrictions this item cannot be shipped to Australia, France or Germany. This is not a comprehensive list and other countries may be added in the future.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
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