Original German WWII First Model DAK Afrikakorps Sun Helmet with Army Badges 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, 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 sewn together.

This particular example is in very good condition, with all components intact. The original khaki cloth covering is intact and retains its original color well. The helmet band, is in excellent condition, and still completely hides the liner rivets. The chin strap is intact, though a bit dried out, and retains almost all of the original grey finish. The leather rim is mostly intact, with some small tears, but retains the original grey finish. 

The interior of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact, and it only has minimal fading and staining. The liner itself is in very good condition, with the leather still supple. The felt padding and fiber band are still in excellent condition, with almost no signs of age. The underside of the leather sweatband is marked with size 58. The sweatband is ink stamped Made in Germany, this stamp was done in the 1980s when the dealer that imported them was forced to mark country of origin due to US importation regulations.

The attachment ferule for the top vent is stamped into the brass D.R.G.M. P.C. Turck W.W.

Metal badges are totally genuine and are in excellent condition with minimal wear. The Reichsadler badge is brass, while the National Colors badge is aluminum.

This will make a great addition to any German WW2 Afrikakorps collection.