Original German WWII 1941 Dated First Model DAK Luftwaffe Tropical Sun Helmet by NEUHAG with Goggles – Size 56 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. On the first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Afrika Korps 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 model like this having cotton outer covering made of fabric sewn together.

This particular example is in very good condition with complete leather trim and liner. The original khaki cloth covering shows age and wear but retains its original color well. The body of the helmet does however show some deformation, so it may have been soaked in water at some point, which would help cool the user quicker. We do not see any stains though, so it may just be from storage, as the helmet shows little sign of use. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in good condition. The chin strap is complete with all fittings present, and the leather trim is also in great shape.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton lining intact under the brim, and there definitely is some staining, so the helmet may have been soaked in water after all. It shows some rippling, but the color is retained for the most part. The spacers and cotter pins for the liner suspension all look to be intact. The liner itself is in very good condition and is maker marked and dated on the underside with NEUHAG 1941, and also has a faint size 56 stamp. The inner lining of the dome is bright orange, definitely not a color we see often.

Metal badges are totally genuine and show some minor wear. They look to be made from plated brass, or some other metal, and have a lovely oxidized patina. They go perfectly with the helmet, which shows light oxidation on many of the metal components.

The included goggles are very much in the WWI Pilot’s style, made for a wide field of vision with a nice gentle amber tint to them. The elastic is still in relatively good shape, and the center spacing adjustment is fully functional. The magnetic metal frames are vented throughout, and have supple rubber padding, for a comfortable fit in the hot desert sun.

This will make a great addition to any German WW2 Afrika Korps collection!