Original German WWII 1941 Dated 2nd Model Afrikakorps DAK Sun Helmet by J. H. Soffel - Size 58cm
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Original Item: 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 having cotton outer covering made of fabric sewn together. This is the second model, with a felt covering.
This particular example is in very good condition, with all parts present and mostly intact, showing period wear. The original olive/khaki felt covering is completely intact, and retains its original color very well. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is in very good condition as well, though it is a bit dusty from storage. The original chin strap is still intact and complete, with some wear where it is bent over the brim on both sides. The green leather trim around the edge is mostly intact, with some wear and rawness to the leather, as well as areas of wear through, showing the edge support steel ring.
The badges on the helmet are in very good used condition, still intact but showing some wear from service. The aluminum Tri-Color shield is still bright, retaining about 90% of the original paint, while the Heer Army eagle looks to be plated and painted zinc alloy, which has matured to a lovely oxidized patina due to the plating wearing through. Both are still firmly attached to the helmet.
The interior of the helmet still has the original green felt covering intact, with a few spots of light mothing. The leather liner itself is in very good condition and supple, showing a lovely light tan color, with some staining around the forehead area from sweat. There is also some flaking around the rim, which is relatively common. It is embossed with JHS on the left side, and the underside of the sweatband is marked with size 58 and a 1941 date. "JHS" indicates manufacture by the maker J. H. Soffel. There are no post war export stamps that we can see. The rigid red felt inner lining is in very good shape, showing just a bit of light staining and a bit of a tear near the top hole.
This will make a fantastic 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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