Germany, SS. A Waffen-SS Panzer M43 Field Cap

(Waffen-SS Einheitsfeldmütze M43 für Mannschaften der Panzertruppe). A well-preserved Waffen-SS Panzer M43 field cap, constructed of black wool. The cap is fully surrounded by fold-down side panels, scalloped toward the front, which provide optional ear and neck protection to the wearer. When not in use, the panels roll up and secure in place at the front with two pebbled and black painted magnetic metal buttons which emanate from the right panel and meet a pair of reinforced buttonholes set into the left panel. Stitched onto the peak is an insignia consisting of a black rayon trapezoid bearing a machine-embroidered silver-grey Totenkopf, topped by an SS-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika. The peak insignia measures 65 mm (w) x 50 mm (h) overall. Completing the exterior features is a protruding visor with a card stock core, fully lined in identical black wool cloth. The interior is encompassed by a multi-piece grey cotton herringbone twill (HBT) liner. Stamped onto the crown is a size mark of “56”. Otherwise unmarked, the cap measures approximately 19.5 cm (w) x 23.5 cm (l) x 14 cm (h). Demonstrating only minor signs of wear and material fatigue, it remains in an extremely fine condition.