Original German WWII 1942 Dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by RF – Large Size 59cm 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 some light period wear as expected. 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 chinstrap is unfortunately completely missing. The green leather trim around the edge is still in very good condition, showing moderate wear from service and a few tears from service, but there are no areas of missing leather. The badges look to be painted aluminum, and they look very nice, with some patination of the finish on the tri-color shield. They are still relatively firm on the helmet.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green covering intact, with no major wear or damage we can see. The leather liner itself is in very good condition and supple. It is stamped on the underside of the sweatband with RF 1942 59, giving the maker, date, and size information. There are no post war export stamps anywhere on the helmet, though it looks like a USGI may have written on the sweatband when he brought it home. The rigid red felt inner lining is fully intact, though it does show some deformation.

This will make a fantastic addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection! We rarely see these in such a large size!