Original Item: Only One Available. This cap is a very example of a German WWII Wehrmacht Heer Army EM & NCO visor cap, as used by “Smoke Troopers”. It features the typical field gray worsted wool construction with a forest green band and a traditional high forward crown. The also has matching bordeauxrot (Bordeaux Red) triple piping, which was the Waffenfarbe (corps color) during WWII for the Heer Nebelwerfer (Smoke Thrower) Rocket and Chemical Troops.
It is decorated with a well detailed brass eagle insignia on the peak and and an open alloy oak leaf wreath surrounding a tri-color cockade on the band. The band insignia was originally plated, but that has all worn away, so it has dull gray color. The dual-buckled black leather chinstrap, designating the wearer to be an enlisted man, is attached to black lacquered buttons on either side. The vulcanfibre visor has a smooth black leather-look upper, exhibiting light wear along the edge and is beige on the underside. The brown leather sweatband is in good supple condition, though it definitely has some sweat staining.
The inside of the cap is lined with tan sheer rayon fabric. The top celluloid plastic shield is still present, but it has cracked quite a bit in many areas. The maker name and address is listed under the remains of the diamond:
Erstklassig
GESETZL. GESCH.
Specialhaus
Globus
ges. gesch.
The maker of the cap seems to be “Specialhaus Globus”, or that may just be the brand name. Erstklassig translates to First Class or Top notch, and the “Gesch Ges” markings indicate that the cap was a trademarked design of the company.
Condition is very good, showing light overall wear and some staining on the edges. The colors are well retained in most areas, though there is definitely some wear and fading to the piping, as is very common. The color is best retained on the rear of the cap under the brim, where it was protected from the elements. We estimate the size to be about a 58-59cm, so this is a nice larger example.
A very nice example of a classic hat worn by German Army “Smoke Trooper” NCO in WWII.