Hungary, Kingdom. A Rare Army Artillery Officer’s Overseas Cap, c.1940

A rare and very well-preserved Hungarian Army Artillery Officer’s overseas cap, constructed of a field-grey rayon blend. The cap is fully surrounded by fold-down side panels, gently scalloped at the front, offering optional ear and neck protection for the wearer. When not in use, the panels are rolled up and secured in place at the front with dual gilded bronze buttons. Each button bears a raised insignia in the form of a St. Stephen’s Crown. Affixed to the left side of the panels is a red wool triangle, secured in place with three stylized bullion wire bands. Stitched onto the peak of the cap is a cockade consisting of a central painted bronze Hungarian tricolour within multiple rows of twisted and rolled gold bullion wire. It measures 30 mm in diameter and rests at a point where four gold bullion wire chevrons meet in the centre. The interior is fully trimmed along the lower edge with a blackened leather sweatband, held in place with a row of machine stitching. It is also encompassed by a multi-piece field-grey rayon liner. Unmarked, the cap measures approximately 290 mm (l) x 125 mm (h) when folded flat. Issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include some oxidation and wear of the wire features, as well as fading throughout the exterior material. This rare cap is in an overall better than very fine condition.