Original German Second Model WWII Afrikakorps Sun Helmet 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, 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 good condition, with the main condition issue being the leather trim and liner. The original olive/khaki felt covering is almost 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 chin strap does have some wear and finish loss from the leather having tried out, but it still is functional and complete. The green leather trim around the edge has split and torn on one side of the helmet, allowing the metal stiffener to protrude.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering intact, as does the corrugated metal spacer for the lining. The liner itself is in good condition, but the leather has dried out, and the markings are very faint and no longer legible, so we were not able to determine a maker or size. The red felt inner lining is in good condition with only one small tear near a vent hole. We estimate that the helmet is a size 56 or 57.

This will make a great addition to any German WW2 Afrikakorps collection