{"product_id":"original-german-wwii-1941-dated-first-model-dak-afrikakorps-sun-helmet-with-eye-shields-size-58","title":"Original German WWII 1941 Dated First Model DAK Afrikakorps Sun Helmet with Eye Shields - size 58","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: Only One Available. On first deployment to North Africa in 1941, Afrikakorps infantry were issued with the traditional European sun helmet known as \u003cem\u003eTropische Kopfbedeckung\u003c\/em\u003e (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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular example is in very good service used condition, with most parts present and intact. This example definitely looks to have seen service, showing staining and wear, with some rippling in the material. These were often doused with water to increase the cooling ability, which could cause this kind of deformation. The original khaki cloth covering covering is intact, and does retain the color well, though there is definitely some overall staining from use and dirt. The helmet band, which hides the attachment rivets for the chin strap and liner, is still present and the condition matches the covering. The chinstrap is fully intact, though it is a bit aged, showing some cracking to the finish. The leather trim around the edge is gray green in color, and does show wear and damage, with some split and cracks around the entire edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe underside of the brim is the correct khaki canvas matching the exterior, and is in similar condition, though a bit darker in color due to less fading from the sun. The liner itself is in very good condition, showing light wear and no major staining or age related deterioration. It has a lovely natural leather finish on the inside, and the leather is still soft and supple. There are no maker marks visible, but there is a faint \u003cstrong\u003e1941\u003c\/strong\u003e date as well as a \u003cstrong\u003e58\u003c\/strong\u003e size marking. The interior dome of the helmet still has the original red cotton covering intact and in good shape, showing staining and dust from storage and age. The top vent fitting is marked with \u003cstrong\u003eD.R.G.M \/ C. TH. DICKE\u003c\/strong\u003e, a well known clothing accessories producer. The DRGM indicates that the name was registered with the German trademark office.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe badges on this example completely original and are the very early issue plated and painted alloy type, retained by three prongs on the interior. Both badges still have most of their original plating and paint, with some wear through and age, which shows the alloy base material. The eagle badge still has all three of the retaining prongs, while the national colors is missing one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso included is a lovely pair of clear German WWII eye shield dust goggles, which really add to the look. They are in very good condition, with intact elastic, and a bit of fading to the fabric components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful example that will make a great addition to any German WWII Afrikakorps collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42050272755781,"sku":"ONSV24CPS083","price":550.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/ONSV24CPS083__08.jpg?v=1728336634","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-german-wwii-1941-dated-first-model-dak-afrikakorps-sun-helmet-with-eye-shields-size-58","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}