Original German WWII 1942 Dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by J. H. Soffel – Size 57cm 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 all parts present and mostly intact, showing moderate period wear. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. 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 intact and complete, though it does show cracking where it is bent over the brim on the left side. The green leather trim around the edge is mostly complete, with some damage on the right side, where the stitching has rotted out. There is also some tearing under the right side insignia. The two aluminum badges are fully intact and retain most all of their original paint, showing moderate wear with just a bit of oxidation.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green felt covering intact, with a few spots of light mothing. The leather liner itself is in very good condition and supple, showing a lovely light chestnut brown color. It is embossed with JHS on the left side, and the underside of the sweatband is marked with size 57 and a 1942 date. It is also marked by maker J. H. Soffel, which is what the “JHS” embossed logo on the other side stands for. There are no post war export stamps that we can see, but there is a 7 size stamp. The rigid red felt inner lining is fully intact, and the fitting for the top vent shows some oxidation.

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