Heer Winter Fur Cap, Dated 1943

The severe cold encountered on the Russian front in the winter of 1941/42 found the Germans completely unprepared not only in heat retaining cold weather garments but also snow camouflage garments. This resulted in numerous, hastily improvised heat retaining and snow camouflage items being utilized including everything from civilian winter clothing to white bed sheets. After the winter of 1941/42 the Oberkommando des Wehrmacht, recognized the need for heavier winter clothing and testing began in the spring of 1942 to develop suitable garments. In April 1942 Hitler approved the chosen design, and the first models were issued in the autumn of that year, included assorted winter fur caps. The fur caps were a standard issue item and were distributed to all EM/NCO’s for the winter season, with other winter garments and were to be returned to the units storage depot at the end of the season for storage, repair and cleaning to be reissued the following September.

Field-grey wool construction cap with white rabbit fur front, fold down side ear lugs and back panels. To the front is a Heer alloy metal national eagle pinned in place. Tie-string and button complete. Inside with Quilted rayon liner. Inside is clearly marked with Rbnr, dated for 1943 and Size 58. All stamped with black ink. The cap is in very good condition with minor signs of age and use.

A really nice example!!