M43 Heer Cap – 1943

Product Description: This M43 Heer Cap – 1943 is an outstanding example of the iconic and extremely desirable late-war Army field cap, in exceptional, near mint condition. It’s a textbook, all-original piece. The exterior is made of a typical mid-war Feldgrau wool, fairly coarse, with virtually all of the original nap intact. There are no moth holes or tracking, no damage of any kind to note. The front of the cap features a correct trapezoid insignia, which is Bevo, machine woven construction. The trapezoid is factory applied to the cap using straight machine stitching. The pebbled front buttons retain all of the original paint. Inside, this M43 Heer Cap – 1943 is lined with a cotton twill fabric. The lining features nice clear and legible stamps, with the RB number maker code “0/0735/0022,” the size “56” and “M43” indicating acceptance at the Munich depot in 1943. There is no evident wear. This cap has a great shape and overall look. These factory made enlisted issue caps are scarce, especially in this outstanding condition.

Historical Description: Model 1943 Field Caps: Prior to WWII, all branches of the German military issued their soldiers a field cap in the traditional “side cap” style (there were other types of field caps for certain specialized units). This type of field cap, called “little boat” (Schiffchen) by the troops, was found to be inadequate in the harsh extreme cold weather conditions on the Eastern Front in the brutal winter of 1941-42. As a result, in 1942, some units started issuing a type of field cap that had flaps and a button closure that could be folded down and fastened under the wearer’s chin, to provide protection to the ears. This type of cap, known as the M42, saw limited issue and was replaced a year later with a new model field cap, the Einheitsfeldmütze, that was intended to be issued to all branches. This final model of Wehrmacht field cap, which collectors have termed the M43, was based on the cap that had originally been issued to Wehrmacht mountain troops and featured the fold down ear flaps, as well as a visor. These caps were made out of wool and were intended for year-round wear in all regions where tropical uniforms were not issued. The caps were apparently very popular, as they very quickly replaced the earlier models on the heads of the troops in the field. By 1944 this was the most commonly seen field cap in combat units. These caps remained popular after the war, and many had their insignia removed and were worn out and discarded.

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