Germany, Ordnungspolziei. An Officer’s Shako

(Ordnungpolizei Tshako für Offizier). An extremely well-preserved Ordnungspolizei Officer’s shako, constructed of a solid black vulcanfibre shell. The sides are fully lined in a classic police-style grey-blue wool twill, with the shell protruding into a gentle slope at the reverse, culminating in a lacquered black vulcanfibre visor offering neck protection for the wearer. Affixed to the crown is a flattened and black lacquered vulcanfibre “coffee can” style fixture, securely held in place by a row of machine stitching around the circumference. The crown is also flanked on each side by two large ventilation holes, both of which are reinforced with non-magnetic metal grommets and covered by mesh screens of identical construction. Riveted to the peak is an aluminum Ordnungspolizei insignia consisting of a semi-circular oak leaf wreath, overlaid by a German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 145 mm (w) x 90 mm (h) overall. Also emanating from the front is a lacquered black vulcanfibre visor with a steep slope. The shako is flanked by aluminum rivets and discs accommodating a multi-piece chinstrap consisting of a black leather base topped by cascading, pebbled aluminum chinscales, fastening in place with a centre stud. A hollow channel cut into the peak retains a cockade consisting of a black wool base with silver aluminum wire and a red wool centrepiece, affixed to a pipe of identical construction. The interior is surrounded by a brown leather sweatband with a scalloped edge, and features a retractable multi-piece silk liner. Unmarked, the shako measures approximately 18.5 cm (w) x 23.5 cm (l) x 15.5 cm (h) (exclusive of cockade). Demonstrating only minor soiling and material fatigue, it remains in an extremely fine condition.