Germany, Feuerschutzpolizei. An EM/NCO’s M43-Style Service Cap

(Einheitsfeldmütze M43 für Männer der Feuerschutzpolizei). A Feuerschutzpolizei (Fire Protection Police) EM/NCO’s M43-style service cap, constructed of dark navy blue 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 at the front with two pebbled magnetic metal buttons emanating from the right flap and meeting an equal number of reinforced buttonholes on the left flap. The outer edge of the crown is trimmed with a length of carmine wool piping. Pinned onto the peak is an aluminum Ordnungspolizei insignia consisting of an oval oak leaf wreath overlaid by a German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika. The insignia measures 55 mm (w) x 45 mm (h). Completing the exterior features is a protruding cardboard-reinforced visor, fully lined in identical wool. The interior features a partial grey leather sweatband set across the forehead, and if also encompassed by a padded multi-piece grey rayon liner. Unmarked, the cap measures approximately 190 mm (w) x 255 mm (l) x 115 mm (h). Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include extensive mothing to the crown piping with additional fatigue and possible mothing of the back of the panels and edge of the visor, several cracks to the visor’s cardboard core, and some interior soiling. It is in an overall fair condition.