Original German WWII 1942 dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by APN with Eye Shields – 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 relatively well retained, though the top area around the vent has sunken in a bit, as we often see due to long term storage. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in very good condition as well. The original chin strap is present and in good condition, showing some tearing and age related deterioration. It did tear through once, and was repaired with two staples. The gray leather trim around the bottom has wear to the finish, with some areas torn away, showing dry rot in the leather. The metal rim wire has pulled out a bit on the rear, and there is also a bend on the brim on the left side. The right side “national colors” badge is aluminum, and in excellent condition, while the left side Heer Eagle is brass, and it looks like the brass oxidized and lost paint, which was then “touched up” post war. Both badges have a just a bit of looseness.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering under the brim intact, with just a bit of fading and some bubbling where the glue has failed. We suspect this helmet may have been doused with water, which was often done to increase their cooling ability. The leather liner itself is in good condition, still mostly supple but showing some staining and cracking due to use. It is marked GERMANY over 6 ¾, indicating it was probably exported post war for the collector market. The sweatband is a bit stiff, but we were still able to check the underside, which has the maker, date, and size information: APN / 1942 / 55. The rigid red felt inner lining is still in great shape, with no cracking or damage we can see, though it is pushed in at the top by the sunken crown of the helmet.

Also included is a lovely pair of tinted German WWII eye shield dust goggles, which really add to the look. They are in excellent condition, with intact elastic, and a bit of fading to the fabric components. The metal fittings do show some light oxidation.

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