Original Item: Only One Available. 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 model like this having cotton outer covering made of fabric panels sewn together.

The pith and fabric construction was lightweight, and permitted ventilation while warding off the sun. Also, it was common for them to be doused in water, as the evaporation effect would cool off the helmet, and therefore the air inside. This however eventually resulted in the helmet becoming soft overall.

This particular example is definitely in service worn condition, with most parts present and intact. This example definitely looks to have seen long service, showing staining and wear, with some rippling in the material, the type of deformation seen when doused with water. The original khaki cloth covering covering is intact, and does retain the color well, though there is definitely some overall staining from use and dirt, particularly near the leather rim. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is still present and the condition matches the covering. The chinstrap is fully intact, though it is a bit aged and stiff, showing some cracking to the finish. The leather trim around the edge is gray in color, and does show wear and damage, with splits and cracks around the entire edge. Like the chinstrap the leather has become stiff.

The underside of the brim is the correct khaki canvas matching the exterior, and is in a similar condition to the rest of the covering, though maybe with a bit more staining. The liner itself is in very good condition, showing light wear and some staining from use and water exposure. It is still relatively supple, though there are areas that are stiff due to the past water exposure. It has a MADE IN GERMANY export marking stamped on the right side, and the underside of the sweatband is size marked 57 under an illegible maker marking. The interior dome of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact and in good shape, showing staining and dust from storage and age.

The badges on this example completely original and are the painted aluminum alloy type, retained by three prongs on the interior. Both badges still have most of their original paint, and are really in great shape, with all three retaining prongs present on both.

Also included is a lovely pair of clear German WWII eye shield dust goggles, which really add to the look. They are in very good condition, with intact elastic, and just a bit of oxidation to the adjustment hardware.

A wonderful service worn example that will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection. This one really looks like it was "really there"!