Original Item: On first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Deutsches Afrikakorps (DAK) troops were issued with the traditional European sun helmet known as Tropische Kopfbedeckung, of the type known to the British forces as the solar topi (or topee). In the German case, these were made of pith, 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 having cotton outer covering made of six fabric panels sewn together.

However, we quickly noticed that this example has four panels on the outside, instead of six, and the prominent ventilation holes in inside of the crown were missing. A closer look shows that while this was indeed used by the DAK Luftwaffe, it was in fact made in France. Even more interesting is that while it is a faded tan color now, this helmet was originally Luftwaffe fliegerblau (flyer's blue) in color! The inside shows this color well, and it can also be seen by moving the helmet band a bit, which shows the original color of the exterior. Definitely a very interesting example worthy of further research!

The helmet still has all components present, including the often missing badges, though it does not look to have ever been outfitted with a chinstrap. This points to it being made to order, and not for an official Luftwaffe contract. The original cloth covering is still fully intact, though as noted earlier, it is faded from blue to a tan color, and it also shows staining from use. These were often doused with water to help cool the owner faster. The helmet band, is in very good condition, and still hides the liner split pins. The rim is cloth, not leather like the German type, and is in very good condition.

The interior of the helmet is still in good condition, though unlike the German issue, the brim is lined with Luftwaffe blue, as is the inside of the crown. The interior has faded a bit, though not nearly as much as the exterior. The liner itself is in good condition, and looks to be made from dark brown oilcloth. Unfortunately it has become very hard over the years, so we cannot move it to check underneath for markings. The 8 cork spacers are still intact and the liner is attached securely to the helmet.

The top crown vent under side is marked B'TE S.G.D.G., which stands for Breveté Sans Garantie Du Gouvernement, or "Patented Without Government Guarantee". This type of marking would only be ween on a French made helmet, and all of the other aspects are completely correct. The metal badges are totally genuine and are in very good condition with a great finish, and a lovely patina. Both look to be made from brass with aluminized paint, and now show the base material in areas due to wear.

A wonderful Service worn French-made Sun helmet, made for use with the German Luftwaffe. This will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection. ready to research and display!