Germany, SS. A Waffen-SS Panzer EM/NCO’s M43 Field Cap

(Waffen-SS Einheitsfeldmütze M43 für Männer der Panzertruppe). An extremely well-preserved Waffen-SS Panzer EM/NCO’s M43 field cap, constructed of black wool. The cap is fully surrounded by fold-down side panels, scalloped at the front, providing optional ear and neck protection to the wearer. When not in use, the panels are rolled up and secured in place with two black bakelite buttons emanating from the right flap and meeting an equal number of reinforced buttonholes on the left flap. Stitched on the peak is a one-piece insignia consisting of a black rayon trapezoid bearing a machine-embroidered silver-grey SS-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, just above a SS-style Totenkopf. The insignia measures 58 mm (w) x 45 mm (h) overall. Completing the exterior features is a protruding visor with a cardboard core, lined in identical black wool. The interior is fully encompassed by a multi-piece grey herringbone twill (HBT) liner. It is unmarked with the exception of a black ink size mark of “56” on the crown. Measuring approximately 200 mm (w) x 250 mm (l) x 120 mm (h), the cap demonstrates minor issues consistent with age and wear, including some bending of the visor core (but with no evident cracking), and moderate soiling of the interior liner. It is in an overall extremely fine condition.