Original Item: Only One Available. This is a maroon fez that was part of the dress uniform of a Waffen-SS military detachment composed of Muslims from Bosnia, Croatia, and Herzegovina in occupied Yugoslavia. The creation of this unit was authorized by AH in 1943. The original purpose was to combat Tito's partisans. Through recruitment and conscription, the unit had 26,000 soldiers within a few months. The group was commanded by German or ethnic German officers, and the uniforms were designed to reflect the religion and ethnicity of the recruits. Later, the Fez was also issued to local volunteers from other areas in the Balkans.

There were two versions of the fez: a field gray model to be worn in combat and while on duty and a maroon model for parades, marching exercises and while off duty.

This example is offered in overall very good condition, with only minor age toning and moth on red/maroon wool felt exterior, probably one of the best we've seen. The insignia look great as well. The top tassel has some fraying at the ends, and the stitches that hold it in place at the rear are present, but the strands of the tassel have pulled out, which could easily be fixed.

There is no size marking, but it seems to be about a size 57. The interior has a tan leather sweatband going around the entire circumference, however it is unfortunately dry rotted and torn. However many of these are completely missing the sweatband, as it has completely fallen off, so this is definitely a nice example.

This example is 100% authentic: there are and have been numerous fakes on the market, this is not one of those. Ready to display!