Original German WWII Luftwaffe EM-NCO Wool M38 Overseas Cap in Size 56 - Schiffchen

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely service used example of a German WWII Luftwaffe M38 Overseas cap (Schiffchen), as worn by Enlisted men and NCOs (EM-NCO). It definitely has a "been there" look that is impossible to duplicate. The overseas cap, nicknamed in German military slang as "Schiffchen", or literally "little ship" as it resembled an up-turned row-boat, was standard issue for the Luftwaffe for most occasions.

The cap is constructed of the correct Luftwaffe Fliegerblau (Flyer's Blue) blue gray wool exterior, and features a fine embroidered eagle and tri-color cockade sewn to the front. These are only stitched to the outer layer of fabric, which means they were sewn on during production. It features blue gray canvas lining, which shows staining around the lower the interior from use and age. There are no maker markings on the interior, however we can see a partially removed "59" stamp and a clear 56 size stamp, so the cap may have shrunk during service, and was remarked at arsenal.

Overall condition is very good, though the original fuzzy "nap" of the fabric on the exterior is a bit worn and the color a bit faded, though under the flaps the original color and texture can be seen. We also can see some previous tack stitches on the top pleat, used to make the cap look better when worn.

A lovely service used cap that was "really there", ready to add to your collection!

Side Cap
A side cap is a military cap that can be folded flat when not being worn. It is also known as a garrison cap or flight cap in the United States, wedge cap in Canada, or field service cap in the United Kingdom. In form the side cap is comparable to the glengarry, a folding version of the Scottish military bonnet. It has been associated with various military forces since the middle of the 19th century, as well as various civilian organizations.