Original German WWII 1942 dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by R & C. with Badges – size 57 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 most parts present and intact, showing moderate period wear at expected. The original brown/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The shape of the helmet is relatively well retained, though the top area around the vent has sunken in a bit, as we often see due to long term storage. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in very good condition as well. The original gray leather chin strap is present and in very good condition, with no tearing, just some wear to the finish. The gray leather trim around the bottom has similar wear to the finish, but no tears or major damage. 

Both the right side “national colors” and left side Heer Eagle badges are present, and look to be made from silvered zinc alloy or possibly brass. They show some degradation of the finish as well as patination, giving them a great service used look that is impossible to duplicate.

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. We suspect this helmet may have been doused with water, which was often done to increase their cooling ability. The leather liner itself is in very good condition, still supple and showing very little staining or other signs of use. There is just a bit of splitting and tearing along the edges. It is marked on the top with maker mark R & C., which is one we have rarely seen before, and on the underside it is marked with size and date 57 1942. The rigid red felt inner lining is still in great shape, with no cracking or damage we can see, just a bit of pushing in in the center.

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