WH (Heer) DAK Tropical Pith Helmet (Tropenhelm). In late 1940, with the impending German entrance into the North African campaign, tropical uniforms and equipment were quickly developed and issued in time for DAK personnel's arrival in Tripoli in February 1941. Originally the tropical uniforms were only intended for wear in North Africa but that was later expanded to include personnel serving in southern areas of continental Europe during the summer months. The light weight felt pith helmet is complete with both its original shields and green painted leather chinstrap, the helmet is a size '57'. The eagle shield is a rare early tombak (Buntmetall) type shield. The helmet is nicely maker marked with 'APN' and dated 1942. Nice example in very good condition!