Original German WWII 1942 Dated First Model DAK Afrikakorps Sun Helmet by ORL with Badges – size 56 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 very nice service used condition, with most parts present and intact. It definitely shows some great period wear, giving it a “salty” look that is impossible to duplicate. The original khaki cloth covering covering is completely intact, showing a bit of fading in areas, as well as staining from dirt and use, particularly near the brim edge. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is still present and the condition matches most of the covering. The chin strap is mostly missing, with just a bit remaining on the right side. The leather trim around the edge is present but the finish is definitely worn, with some flaking on the edges.

The underside of the brim is the correct khaki canvas matching the exterior, and is in similar condition, showing some discoloration and bumpiness from past water exposure. The interior of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact, showing staining from water and wear, and there are markings on the fitting for the top vent. The liner itself is in good condition, with the soft leather sweatband showing light surface dry rot and other age related degradation. The seam at the rear is also almost completely popped due to the stitching degrading. The sweatband has embossed with a triangular “wheat” maker logo on the interior with runic style letters O, R. and L, which we have seen on other examples. The underside is maker marked and dated ORL / 1942, and also size marked with 56.

The badges on this example completely original and are the very early issue painted type, retained by three prongs on the interior. The eagle on the left side looks to be painted zinc alloy, while the shield is painted brass alloy. Both badges still have all three prongs present, and most of their original paint, with some wear through and age, which shows the base material.

A lovely service used example that will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection.