Original Item: Only One Available. The DAF (Deutsche Arbeitsfront or German Labor Front) was a National Socialist trade union that supplanted independent unions once the NSDAPs had come to power in Germany. This fantastic example of a Second Pattern DAF Leaders overseas cap that is constructed of fine dark navy blue wool. This cap is offered in very good condition with light wear. The front center of the cap features the machine embroidered BeVo style national eagle on black background and two aluminum buttons on the front. The top of the cap and the faux flaps on the side piped with gray silver, which indicates that the wearer was a Leader in the DAF.
The interior lining of the cap is a black rayon and cotton blend, and it features a wonderful original RZM Tag that is also marked with the DAF “cog” emblem stitched to it. This identifies the cap as a Mütze für Werkscharen der DAF (Hat for DAF Factory Workers / Troops). It is marked with lot number Nr. A 028522, and gives the Hersteller (manufacturer) as 2. There is no size stamp, but the cap is roughly a U.S. size 6 ⅞. At the bottom of the label it is indicated that the cap is made pursuant to laws passed in 1934 and 1935. The small leather sweatband at the front of the interior is in good shape and retains its stitching. The sweatband also has an embossed maker’s label.
Overall condition is very good, showing light wear, and the colors are well retained. A very good example of a hard to find cap!
With the dissolution of all Free Trade Unions in Germany in May 1933 the Deutsche Arbeitsfront, (German Labor Front), was established to replace the unions and to educate the workers in industry and commerce for smooth and efficient operation of all labor in the Third Reich. In October 1934 the DAF was given official status as a sub-section of the NSDAP and in March 1936 it was recognized as an independent NSDAP affiliated association and granted control of its own monetary budget. With this money it was able to procure its own signs and other insignia.