Original German WWII Luftwaffe Officer M38 Wool Overseas Cap in Size 59 – Schiffchen Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent example of a German WWII Luftwaffe M38 Overseas side cap (Schiffchen), as worn by Officers. 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 “whipcord” woven wool exterior, and features a fine embroidered eagle and tri-color cockade sewn to the front. The stitching does not go into the interior, so they look to be original, sewn only to the exterior fabric layer. It has aluminum bullion piping around the circumference of the flap, indicating officer issue. It features a dark charcoal gray rayon lining that shows some minor sweat staining and is size stamped 59. There are no maker markings or stamps visible on the inside, so production date and maker are unknown.

Condition of this cap is very good, with light wear, and no moth damage that we can see. The color is retained quite well, with the expected very minor fading and discoloration from age and use. There is a stitch across the center top of the cap, a common modification that helps the cap hold its shape better. A great example of a Luftwaffe Officer Overseas cap, ready to add to your collection!

Side Cap
A side cap is a military cap that can be folded flat when not being worn. It is also known as a garrison cap or flight cap in the United States, wedge cap in Canada, or field service cap in the United Kingdom. In form the side cap is comparable to the glengarry, a folding version of the Scottish military bonnet. It has been associated with various military forces since the middle of the 19th century, as well as various civilian organizations.