Original Item: On first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Afrikakorps troops were issued with the traditional European sun helmet known as Tropische Kopfbedeckung, 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.

This example is in lovely "salty" service used condition, and looks to have been doused with water multiple times, which increases the ability of the helmet to keep the wearer cool. This has resulted in the "crushed" shape it shows, as the water causes the cork layers inside to degrade and crack over time. In spite of this, it still has all components present, including the often missing chin strap and badges. The original rare olive green (most were khaki) cloth covering is intact and retains its original color, with fading in areas from wear. The helmet band is in very good condition, and still completely hides the liner split pins. The leather rim is complete with fully intact stitching, though it has become stained and shrunk, resulting in a lot of small cracks around the circumference.

The interior of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact, and it still has a vibrant color. The liner itself is in very good condition, with the leather still mostly supple, having matured to a lovely chestnut brown color. The felt padding and fiber band are still in very good condition, with almost no signs of age. The underside of the sweatband is stamped with size 58, and there are no other markings on the helmet.

The metal badges are totally genuine and are in very good condition with a great finish with light wear. They appear to be made from zinc, with the Tri-Color shield being painted, and the Luftwaffe "Eagle in Flight" badge having a patinated plated finish. Both are still firmly attached to the helmet.

This lovely "salty" example will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection. Ready to display!