Original German WWII First Model DAK Afrikakorps Sun Helmet by G.A.H. Helmfabrik with Eye Shields – size 57 Original Items

Original Item: Only One 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 and 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 therefore the air inside. This however eventually resulted in the helmet becoming soft overall.

This particular example is in very good used condition, with most parts present and intact. This example definitely looks to have seen service, showing staining and wear, with the top somewhat caved in. These were often doused with water to increase the cooling ability, which could cause this kind of deformation. The original khaki cloth covering covering is intact, and does retain the color well, though there is definitely staining around the top and edges, as well as fading from the sun. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is still present and the condition matches the covering. The chinstrap is mostly missing, with only about 4 inches still present on the right side. The leather trim around the edge is gray in color, and does show wear and damage, with some split and cracks around the entire edge.

The underside of the brim is the correct khaki canvas matching the exterior, and is in similar condition, though a bit darker in color due to less fading from the sun. The liner itself is in very good condition, showing light wear and no major staining or age related deterioration. It has a lovely natural leather finish on the inside, and the leather is still soft and supple. The underside is marked with a rectangular maker logo showing an Afrikorps pith helmet on the left, and G.A.H. / Helmfabrik on the right. There is also a faint size 57 stamped in the other side.

The interior dome of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact and in good shape, showing staining and dust from storage and age. The top vent fitting is marked with D.R.G.M / HELMFABRIK G.A.HOFFMANN BERLIN, the same company marked on the underside of the sweatband. The DRGM indicates that the name was registered with the German trademark office.

The badges on this example completely original and are the very early issue plated and painted brass type, retained by three prongs on the interior. Both badges still have all three prongs present, and most of their original plating and paint, with some wear through and age, which shows the brass base material.

Also included is a lovely pair of clear German WWII eye shield dust goggles, which really add to the look. They are in very good condition, with intact elastic, and a bit of fading to the fabric components.

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