Original German WWII 1942 Dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by JHS with Eye Shields – Size 55cm 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 and 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 only partly present, missing the part that hooks onto the left side, and the remaining portion is partly torn through at the attachment point. The gray leather trim around the edge shows a lot of deterioration, and is missing in many areas, showing the sides of the felt construction, as well as the white stitching normally hidden by the trim. We can see some past attempts to stabilize it. The two aluminum badges are fully intact and retain almost all of their original paint, showing little to no wear.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green felt covering intact, with no mothing we can see. The leather liner itself is in very good condition and supple. It is embossed with JHS on the left side, and the underside of the sweatband is marked with size 55 and a 1942 date. There are no post war export stamps that we can see, but there is the name ROTH written on it. The rigid red felt inner lining is mostly intact, with a crack between two of the vent holes.

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 show little to no oxidation.

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