Original German WWII 2nd Model 1942 dated Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by J.H. Soffel with Badges and Ultrasin Goggles & Pouch – 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 example also comes with a great pair of Ultrasin goggles and their original carrying pouch.

This particular example is in very good lightly used condition, with most parts present and intact, showing light period wear as expected. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color well. The shape of the helmet is well retained, with almost no sag in the center of the top. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in great condition as well. The original chin strap is present and in good condition, still supple with some loss of leather and damage around where the chinstrap sits on the brim. The green leather trim around the bottom has wear to the finish, but is still intact with some tearing and loss of leather as shown. The badges on this example look to be painted cast aluminum, and they are still firmly affixed to the helmet. They do however show a small bit of wear and oxidation, with some finish loss.

The interior of the helmet still has the original green felt covering intact. The leather liner itself is in excellent condition and supple. It is embossed with JHS for maker J.H. Soffel, and the underside of the beautiful supple sweatband is marked size 56 with a 1942 date. The rigid red felt inner lining is near perfect. Really a great slightly used example of this type of helmet.

The included pair of “Ultrasin” leather goggles are blue / gray with a blue strap, most likely made by the company Nitsche and Gunther. As indicated on the included case, they are the 75% tint type, as would be very useful in the desert sun. This type was for the most part general purpose, though not really intended for flight or another type of use that would need a wide field of vision. They are in excellent condition and remain undamaged, and come with their original carrying pouch! The elasticity on the strap has even been retained quite well, something rarely seen!

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