German WW2 DAK Afrika Korps Polo Helmet

Description

This German WW2 DAK Afrika Korps “Polo” Helmet is an example of the captured British and South African pith helmets repurposed by German forces during the North African campaign. The Afrika Korps was well known for adapting foreign equipment in the field, and khaki cotton-covered pressed-felt helmets were among the most widely reused items. This example reflects that history, featuring the distinctive “polo” style crown, multi-fold khaki puggaree hatband, and dual aluminum shields—an army eagle on the left and national tricolor on the right—mounted in the traditional configuration seen on field-issued headgear.

The helmet displays age-consistent wear, including a tear at the top front crown with an older interior repair, a smaller tear at the upper back crown, a small hole at the rear brim, and a separated section of khaki trim on one side. The ventilator cap at the top crown appears later-drilled, and brass chinstrap hooks were riveted to the interior brim. The felt lining shows scattered mothing, and the leather sweatband is no longer present, but the overall structure remains intact and representative of helmets captured and reissued by DAK troops.

Collectors of Afrika Korps equipment, WW2 tropical gear, and North African campaign artifacts will appreciate the historical context and distinctive construction of this German-used “polo” style helmet.