Original German WWII First Model DAK Kriegsmarine Sun Pith Helmet in size 56 – dated 1941 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 Headwear), 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 wonderful condition, and is an extremely rare Kriegsmarine issued example, as indicated by the gold colored national eagle on the left side of the helmet. These are quite scarce, and this is the first example we have had! It comes with complete original leather trim and liner, and like Luftwaffe examples, the leather is brown colored, not green. The original khaki cloth covering shows age and wear but retains its original color well. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in good condition. The chin strap is complete with all fittings present. The leather does show wear, but is still solid. The top of the helmet is caved in a small bit, which is fairly typical, as they are not very strong.

The interior of the helmet still has the original brown green cotton covering intact, which matches the underside of the brim The liner itself is in very good condition, with the leather complete and supple, wit minimal wear. The sweatband is embossed with maker’s logo, seen on many other examples of both 1st and 2nd model helmets. On the underside of the sweat band it is ink stamped with size 56, as well as with the makers initials ORL over a date of 1941.

The top fitting for the helmet vent is marked WERNER PAUSE & CO. / BERLIN, but we do not know if this is the maker of the helmet, or the maker of that particular fitting. This same marking has been seen on many original helmets.

Metal badges are totally genuine and show minor wear, being retained by bent metal tabs. There is no evidence that these were added to the helmet later, or that there were ever other types of badges installed. They are really in great shape, and present beautifually.

This will make a great addition to any German WWII Africa Campaign or Kriegsmarine collection. Ready to display!