Original Item: Only One Available. This is a wonderful example of a Pre War / Early War Soviet Officer’s winter cap, referred to as a “Finka”, which was first introduced by the order of the Revolutionary Military Council of the USSR number 14 of January 31, 1931. The cap itself is the same style as a ushanka, but without the ear flaps that button on the top when not in use. This example is in wonderful, nearly unissued condition and comes complete with an original enameled Soviet red star badge on the front.

An ushanka, also called an ushanka-hat, is a Russo fur cap with ear covering flaps that can be tied up to the crown of the cap, or fastened at the chin to protect the ears, jaw, and lower chin from the cold. An alternative is to bend the flaps back and tie them behind the head, which is called "ski-style" — this offers less protection from the elements, but much better visibility, essential for high-speed skiing. The dense fur also offers some protection against blunt impacts to the head. They are also traditionally worn in the Baltic region, including Sweden and Finland. The word ushanka derives from ushi (у́ши), "ears" in Russo and many Slavic languages.

This is a strange variation of these winter hats, as it does not have the ear flaps present, and appear to either have never been present or professionally removed, as per the early Finka pattern. The cap is in great condition and shows signs of very little use and wear. The interior has the standard Soviet style quilt type padding lining in dark brown, with no markings present. The front has the standard enameled Soviet star attached.

This is a wonderful example that comes ready for further research and display.