Original German WWII First Model DAK Afrikakorps Green Sun Helmet Original Items

Original Item: Only One Set Available. 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 model like this having cotton outer covering made of fabric panels sewn together.

The pith an fabric construction was lightweight, and permitted ventilation while warding off the sun. Also, it was common for them to be doused in water, as the evaporation effect would cool off the helmet, and therefor the air inside. This however eventually resulted in the helmet becoming soft overall.

This example is in excellent condition, and in the darker olive green color, which looks to have been made for a short time before the move to the second model helmet, which had a felt covering. The only real issue is that the vent cover and fitting for the top is missing, possibly removed long ago to increase the ventilation rate through the top of the helmet. It does not look to have been doused in water during the past, and still retains the correct shape very well.

The original green cloth covering is fully intact and retains its original color, with just a bit of wear and staining. The helmet band is great condition, and still hides the liner split pins. The leather trim is in very good condition, still mostly soft, with no tearing or other issues that we usually see. The chin strap is still intact, and in great shape like the trim.

The interior of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact, with just a bit of light staining at the top. The liner itself is in excellent condition, with the leather still soft and supple, with no staining or deterioration. We checked under the sweatband, and there were unfortunately no size markings. We estimate that it is about a size 58.

The badges on this example are somewhat rare, and constructed of painted plastic with three securing tabs on the back of each. They definitely look to be original, and do show some light wear around the edges where the paint has worn away. They are both still securely attached to the helmet.

The inside of the helmet has a small tag attached around the sweatband, giving the name “August Schneider Dresden”, which we assume is the maker of the hat, though it is only marked on this tag, and not anywhere else on the helmet.

A wonderful example that will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection.