Original German WWII Heer Army EM-NCO Schiffchen M42 Overseas Cap by Mützenfabrik Kornacker – size 57 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a German WWII Heer Infantry EM-NCO M42 overseas cap (Schiffchen), with moderate period wear. The overseas cap, nicknamed in German military slang as Schiffchen, or literally “little ship” as it resembled an up-turned row-boat, was standard issue for all branches of the Heer. The M42 overseas cap was introduced for EM/NCO personnel during July 1942, as a replacement for the earlier M34 overseas cap. The M42 cap was designed to offer more protection from the cold for the ears and neck and the design pattern was based on the Mountain Troopers Bergmütze, (Mountain Cap), but without the visor.

This example is constructed of a field gray (feldgrau) wool exterior, wit gray rayon lining. It features a fine machine embroidered combined Wehrmachtadler eagle and National tri-color cockade insignia sewn to the front top, with the correct light gray threads for the mid war period. It has the correct two side vents, and the fold down flaps are secured in front by two pebbled magnetic buttons, which look to originally have been painted forest green.

The lining of the cap still shows clear maker and size information stamped inside:

H 43
Mützenfabrik
Kornacker
Hildesheim
57

Condition of the cap is very good, though it definitely does show wear from service and age. There is some scattered mothing / wear holes on the upper rear, and also possibly some mothing to the fuzzy “nap” of the fabric on the sides. There is also overall wear and a bit of fading on the exterior, visible when you look under the side flaps. The interior shows wear and overall staining around the lower edge, with some wear holds and spot stains inside the crown.

A very nice service used M42 overseas cap, ready to add to your collection!