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 cork, 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 helmets were outfitted with insignia for that branch, which for the Heer Army was the usual Tri-Color shield on the right side and the Heer Army closed wing silver eagle on the left. These were made from brass and zinc early in the war, but eventually were usually made from aluminum.

This is a lovely Heer Army Silver eagle from a 1st model tropical sun helmet, which was cutout from the left side, and is still attached to a 2 1/2"W x 2 1/4"H section of the helmet. This shows the complete cross section, with the khaki canvas top layer, the red lining, and the layers of cork between them. The badge looks to be an early war stamped brass type, and still retains all three brass retaining prongs. There is some oxidation and plating loss to the front, but nothing out of line with long service.

A very interesting insignia, ready to add to your German WWII collection!