M40 Heer BeVo Trapezoid Eagle Cap Insignia Cut-Off

Product Description:  A fine example of the M40 Heer BeVo Trapezoid Eagle Cap Insignia Cut-Off, originally designed for wear on the Bergmütze (mountain cap) issued to Gebirgsjäger troops. Woven in flat, machine-embroidered rayon thread on a dark green backing, this eagle follows the  trapezoid shaped pattern.

Though first intended for mountain troops, these insignia were later repurposed for use on M42 and M43 field caps, with many examples folded into a trapezoid shape and applied accordingly. This particular M40 Heer BeVo Cap Insignia – Cutoff remains affixed to a small section of an M43 cap, confirming its late-war reissue use. The eagle displays minimal wear, retains strong weave definition, and is preserved in Excellent condition, a desirable and authentic piece for collectors of German field gear and insignia.

The present cut-off originates from a substantial private collection assembled over more than three decades, encompassing a wide range of Second World War–era German insignia across all branches and types. The final photograph illustrates the broader grouping from which this example is offered. Additional uniform cut-off eagles from this same collection are presented in related lots.

Historical Description:  German cloth cap eagles were a standard insignia worn on military headgear across all branches of the German armed forces during the Third Reich (1933–1945). Featuring the national eagle clutching a swastika, these emblems symbolized authority and allegiance to the regime. They were typically worn on side caps (Feldmützen) and visored caps (Schirmmützen), produced in various forms such as machine-woven (BeVo), embroidered, or printed, depending on the branch, rank, and production period. Each service had its own color scheme—silver-gray on field gray for the Heer, white on blue-gray for the Luftwaffe, golden-yellow on dark blue for the Kriegsmarine, and white or gray on black or field gray for the Waffen-SS.

Cloth eagles were usually paired with national cockades and varied between enlisted and officer ranks in quality and detail. Tropical and foreign volunteer versions added further diversity to the designs. Though mass-produced, these insignia have become collectible artifacts due to their historical significance and variety. Today, German cloth cap eagles offer insight into the military structure and visual symbolism of Nazi Germany’s armed forces.

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Click the link here to learn more: Free Evaluation or Inquiries 

or feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com