Original German WWII 1941 Dated First Model DAK Afrikakorps Sun Helmet by ORL with Eye Shields – size 57 Original Items

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 in excellent lightly used condition, with all parts present and intact. It does not look to have seen much use in service at all, with all of the wear on it probably occurring long storage over the past 80 years. The original khaki cloth covering covering is completely intact, still retaining the original color well, though it has darkened a bit from dirt and dust. There are also a few small stains, but no evidence that it was ever doused in water. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is still present and the condition matches f the covering. The chin strap is present and in great shape, having been placed over the brim long ago, but showing no finish loss or wear. The leather trim around the brim is fully retained, showing just a bit of wear, and interestingly is a light tan color, instead of the usual brown or gray.

The underside of the brim is the correct khaki canvas matching the exterior, and is in similar condition, though a bit lighter in color due to less dust exposure. The interior dome of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact and in great shape, with the color still vibrant. The top vent fitting is marked with D.R.G.M / P.C. TURCKE Ww., indicating P. C. Turcke WWe. of Lüdenscheid, a known maker of clothing accessories such as buttons, belt buckles, etc. The DRGM indicates that the name was registered with the German trademark office.

The liner itself is in very good condition, showing very little wear, and no age related deterioration. It has a lovely natural leather finish on the inside, and the leather is still soft and supple. The sweatband has embossed with a triangular “wheat” maker logo on the interior with runic letters O, R. and L, which we have seen on other examples. The underside is maker marked and dated ORL / 1941, and also size marked with 57.

The badges on this example completely original and are the very early issue painted brass type, retained by three prongs on the interior. Both badges still have all three prongs present, and most of their original paint, with some wear through and age, which shows the brass base material.

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 a bit of fading to the fabric components.

A wonderful example that will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection.