Original German WWII 1942 dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by APN with Badges & Ultrasin Goggles – size 59 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 (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 having cotton outer covering made of fabric sewn together. This is the second model, with a felt covering.

This particular example is in very good service used condition, with all parts present and intact, showing moderate period wear at expected. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The shape of the helmet is well retained, with a bit of sag at the top of the dome, and there is also a bit of mothing at the top. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in very good condition as well. The original chin strap is present and in very good condition, still supple with just a bit of finish wear. The green leather trim around the bottom has wear to the finish, but is still fully intact with no tearing. The badges on this example look to be painted cast aluminum, and they are still affixed to the helmet, with just a bit of looseness.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering under the brim intact, with just a bit of fading and some bubbling where the glue has failed. The leather liner itself is in very good condition and supple, however the stitching that holds it to the band has almost completely pulled out. In the past, someone attempted to glue it back to the band, which was not entirely successful. It is marked on the underside with the maker, date, and size information: APN / 1942 / 59. The rigid red felt inner lining is still in great shape, with no cracking or damage we can see, though it is pushed in at the top by the sunken crown of the helmet. Definitely a very nice example!

Also included is a lovely pair of “Ultrasin” leather goggles in blue / gray, most likely made by the company Nitsche and Gunther. These look to be the 78% tint types, as would be very useful in the desert sun. This type was for the most part general purpose, though not really intended for flight or another type of use that would need a wide field of vision. They are in good condition, with intact elastic, and just a bit of rust staining to the canvas straps.

This will make a fantastic addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection!