Original German WWII 1942 dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by F.ST.L with Eye Shields – size 56 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 condition, with most parts present, showing moderate period wear. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The shape of the helmet is relatively well retained, with just a bit of sinking in the center crown, however it is bowed out on either side by the chin strap attachment points, almost like it was stretched over headphones for a long period. 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 still partly present, with portion that attaches to the hook on the left completely missing. The gray green leather trim around the bottom is present with fully intact stitching, however the leather has split through around much of the front edge, and the steel stiffener ring can be seen.

The “National Colors” and Heer Eagle badges on this cap both look to be made from painted zinc, which now has faced to a lovely gray patina. The paint on both is in very good shape, showing just a bit of flaking and cracking and the badges are still well attached to the helmet.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green cotton covering under the brim intact, with just a bit of fading and some lifting where the glue has failed. The leather liner itself is in very good condition, still mostly supple, showing one area of staining where it has become stiff. The sweatband folds down relatively easily, and we can see a date of 4 – 42 next to a size of 56, and to the right of that is the maker mark F.ST.L., a known but unidentified maker of 2nd model sun helmets. There is also a 60 N. marking, but we do not know what this means. The rigid red felt inner lining is still in great shape, with no cracking or damage we can see.

Also included is a lovely pair of clear German WWII eye shield dust goggles, which really add to the look. They are in very good condition, with strong elastic and only a bit of color fading. The metal fittings do show some very light oxidation.

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