Original German WWII 2nd Model 1942 dated Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet with Badges by JHS With “General Purpose” Leather Dust Goggles 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 fantastic near mint condition, with all parts intact and in great shape, with little sign of abuse or major wear. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in excellent condition as well. The original chin strap is fully intact and supple, almost no finish wear. The green leather trim is slightly worn on the edges from many years of storage. The two aluminum badges are intact and retain most of their original paint.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green felt covering intact. The leather liner itself is in excellent condition and supple. It is embossed
with JHS and the underside of the sweatband is marked size 56 with a 1942 date. It also has some post war stamps such as GERMANY on sweatband, from when many of these were exported as surplus after the war. The red felt inner lining is near perfect. Really a great barely used example of this type of helmet.

Also included is a lovely pair of “General Purpose” goggles. The German army issued a wide variety of protective, special duty and general glasses and goggles for assorted personnel including sunglasses for use in the desert or snowy climates. Although some goggles were designed with a specific purpose in mind they also issued general purpose goggles with interchangeable lenses for use by all personnel as required. The condition is a lovely worn look but unfortunately there is a tear in the leather on the left side by the reinforced leather for the elastic strap and is held in place by tape.

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