Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice service used example of a German WWII Luftwaffe M38 Overseas cap (Schiffchen), as worn by Enlisted men and NCOs (EM-NCO). 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 the Luftwaffe for most occasions.
The cap is constructed of the correct Luftwaffe Fliegerblau (Flyer’s Blue) blue gray wool exterior, and features a fine embroidered eagle and tri-color cockade sewn to the front. It features a faded light blue canvas lining, which has a faded maker stamp on the inside on the left. We tried to read it, but unfortunately it is not quite clear enough.
The condition of the cap is good, but it definitely does show staining and wear from service. There is discoloration around the lower edged from dirt and sweat, and the interior is stained as well. The “nap” of the exterior is also worn, except where protected by the side flaps.
Real service used caps such as these have a nice “salty” look that is impossible to duplicate, and means that it was “really there”, and not sitting in a depot during the war. Ready to add to your collection!