Original German WWII 1942 dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by APN with Badges & Ultrasin Goggles – size 55 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 olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The shape of the helmet is well retained, with a bit of sag at the top of the dome. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in very condition as well. The original chin strap is unfortunately completely missing. The gray leather trim around the bottom has wear to the finish, and shows some tearing on the very front and on the left side, where the metal edge reinforcement is sticking out slightly.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering under the brim intact, with just a bit of fading. The leather liner itself is in very good condition and supple. It is marked on the underside with the maker, date, and size information: APN / 1942 / 55. There does look to be a faint “GERMANY” export marking on the liner as well. The rigid red felt inner lining is still in great shape, with just a bit of a crack near one of the vent holes. Definitely a very nice example!

The badges on this example look to be painted cast zinc, and they are still. securely affixed to the helmet. They have oxidized to a lovely patina, with much of the original paint still retained as shown.

Also included is a lovely pair of “Ultrasin” leather goggles in blue / gray, most likely made by the company Nitsche and Gunther. These look to be the 78% tint types, as would be very useful in the desert sun. This type was for the most part general purpose, though not really intended for flight or another type of use that would need a wide field of vision. They are in good condition, with intact elastic, however the canvas portion of the securing band does have some rotted out parts, and is a bit delicate, especially where it connects to the goggles on the right side.

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