Original German WWII First Model DAK Afrikakorps Sun Helmet by ORL with Badges - Service Used
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Original Item: Only One Available. On first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Afrikakorps infantry were issued with the traditional European sun helmet known as Tropische Kopfbedeckung (Tropical headgear), 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 panels sewn together.
The pith and fabric construction was lightweight, and permitted ventilation while warding off the sun. Also, it was common for them to be doused in water, as the evaporation effect would cool off the helmet, and therefore the air inside. This however eventually resulted in the helmet becoming soft overall.
This particular example is in very nice service-used condition, with all parts present and intact, though heavily worn. It definitely shows some great period wear, giving it a "broken in" look that is impossible to duplicate. The original khaki cloth covering is completely intact, showing heavy of fading in areas, as well as staining from dirt and use. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is still present and the condition matches the covering, though it is more stretched out. Judging from the shape and somewhat "puckered" look to the covering, this definitely looks to have been soaked with water during service.
The chin strap is present and complete, though it is a bit stiff. They gray color is mostly retained with areas of wear, and it is stretched taut over the brim. The leather trim around the edge is heavily worn away with most of the base material still intact, but there are areas of loss and heavy rubbing. It is still very weak.
The underside of the brim is the correct khaki canvas matching the exterior, and is in similar condition, showing some rippling from age and possible water exposure. The interior of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact, with heavy wear and verdigris on the metal ring. The liner is present but definitely worn, with staining and minor areas of dry rot. It is now in delicate condition, showing some past cracking. The sweatband has embossed with a triangular "wheat" maker logo on the interior with runic style letters O, R. and L, which we have seen on other examples. The underside of the sweatband is also stamped ORL and 57 for the size.
The badges on this example completely original and are the very early issue painted brass type, retained by three prongs on the interior. Both badges still have all three prongs present, and much of their original paint, though there is heavy wear through and age, which shows the brass base material. They may not be
A wonderful service used example that will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection.
- This product is available for international shipping. Shipping not available to: Australia, France, or Germany
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
- Due to legal restrictions this item cannot be shipped to Australia, France or Germany. This is not a comprehensive list and other countries may be added in the future.
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