Original German Second Model WWII Afrikakorps Sun Helmet – Dated 1942 Original Items

Original Item: On first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Afrikakorps infantry 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 having cotton outer covering made of fabric sewn together. This is the second model, with a felt covering.

This particular example is in excellent condition, with complete supple leather trim and liner. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in excellent condition as well. The chin strap is excellent and functional. The green leather trim around the edge also in very good condition, which is very rare as this area is almost always worn on this type of helmet.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering intact, as does the corrugated metal spacer for the lining. The liner itself is in excellent condition and supple. It is embossed with an M inside a shield and the underside of the sweatband is dated 1942. Original paper tag reads size 57. The red felt inner lining is in wonderful condition with no defects.

This will make a fantastic addition to any German WW2 Afrikakorps collection